Antique Jewelry Buying Tips

The condition, quality, and authenticity of antique jewelry are important considerations that need to be established when purchasing antique jewelry. Examining antique jewelry with a 10X loupe or magnifying glass at the jewelers is a vital part of the antique jewelry buying process.

The first step in an informed purchase is to check for seams in the piece, as seams indicate an alteration or repair to the antique jewelry item. An odd colored gold may indicate that the jewelry item was, for instance, possibly part of an antique necklace and is now seamed into a ring or pendant. Seams in antique jewelry that indicate repairs are acceptable as jewelry prior to 1850 necessitates certain repairs. However, bad seams like lead soldering are unacceptable as they destroy precious metals and gemstones.

Ensure that the jeweler gives you everything in writing such as receipts, appraisals, and certifications. Finally, making purchases from a reputed jeweler can save you a lot of heartache when purchasing antique jewelry.