Have you developed a new interest in antique jewelry? This is an interest that a number of people develop, but some people do not take the time to learn how to properly shop for antique jewelry. Due to their inexperience, some people have bought what they mistakenly thought was antique jewelry. The following points can help you to better understand how to shop for antique jewelry with better confidence and less confusion.
Markings
Many antique pieces have markings on them that were made by the original designers. The absence of a marking on a piece does not mean that the piece is not a genuine antique. However, it would be wise to perform more research on the piece before making a purchase. For example, you could inquire about the history of the piece and how the seller managed to get possession of it.
Price
You may have heard the old saying, "If it seems too good to be true, it probably isn't true." Some new collectors of antique jewelry get excited about the low prices of some of their finds. There are a number of pieces out there that mimic the appearance of antique jewelry. However, these pieces fall into different categories than antique and estate jewelry. For example, costume jewelry may be mass produced, priced low, and look antique.
Comparisons
Perhaps you have been looking at a few auction sites for antique jewelry. It is a good idea to look at the pieces the sellers have. If you notice that a seller has many of the same exact pieces for sale, it is very possible that they are not antiques. This is because many antique jewelry pieces are one-of-a-kind. Even if the listing is labeled as antique, it could be inaccurate information, which is why inquiring more about the pieces is ideal.
Patina
Over time, the metal of antique jewelry gets an old, stained appearance. Scratches and dings are also possible on items that were previously worn. In an effort to preserve the antique appearance and preserve the metal, these pieces are not usually restored. If you find a piece that you are interested in that has a new and shiny metal appearance, inquire about whether the piece has been restored. If a seller has a piece that looks new and claims that it has not been restored, it is wise to get additional proof of its authenticity.
An antique jewelry seller who has a good reputation in the industry can be used as a resource for locating authentic antique jewelry. They can also provide additional tips that you can use as you add to your collection. For more information, contact local professionals like Rhonda's Jewelry.
