Estate and Antique Jewelry ...
If you need to have your jewelry appraised for insurance reasons, settling an estate, or just for resale, call Barbara and Randy. Their combined 35+ years of experience in the jewelry industry has made them experts in these types of appraisals. They know that each and every piece is unique ... made just once. "After all," claims Randy, "everyone knows there are only so many '55 Chevy Belairs for sale, and jewelry is the same way too!"
You can call and schedule an appointment to meet with Barbara and Randy, or you can bring your jewelry into the store for them to appraise. They will help you sort the vaulable items from the costume jewelry -- all for no charge! If you decide that you would like to sell your item(s), they will even make a cash offer to purchase.
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Frequently Asked Questions ...
What exactly is estate vs. antique jewelry?
"Estate" is a broad term referring to any jewelry item, which has been previously owned. There are several main categories, including:
MODERN: These are newer pre-owned pieces, from the 70's to the present.
COSTUME: Jewelry produced without the use of precious metals or gemstones.
PERIOD: Jewelry reminiscent of a particular era in history, such as Retro, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian, etc.
REPRO'S: Reproductions of period pieces; copies or newly made from original molds or patterns.
ANTIQUE: Historically refers to items over 100 years old; however, this term is often used to describe jewelry which is more than 25 years old.
I've seen the," Antiques Roadshow" on PBS. I just might have a fortune locked away in my safe deposit box. How do I know what I have?
The best way to determine the value of estate jewelry is to consult with a Certified Gemologist Appraiser of the American Gem Society, or a qualified estate jewelry dealer. Value is based upon many things, but usually revolves around three factors; collectability, condition, and craftsmanship. Collectability is based upon supply and demand. For example, platinum Art Deco diamond rings are currently in high demand. The condition of the piece is very important, as a buyer you may not wish to invest a large amount of money in repairs. Quality craftsmanship is always in vogue; estate and antique jewelry collectors are always interested in well-crafted, high quality pieces.
I inherited my great Aunt Millie's giant diamond cluster ring 20 years ago, and I've never worn it. It's just not me. What can I do? You may wish to redesign the ring into a piece you would wear and enjoy. That way, you would preserve the sentiment of the original piece by using Aunt Millie's diamonds. Other options may include consigning the item with an estate jeweler, trading the piece in for something entirely new, or selling it outright for cash.
Can I reuse the gold or other metals from a sentimental piece of jewelry?
Metals can be reused but with usually less then satisfactory results. When old gold is "melted" down and recast the alloys tend to "clump" together which causes porosity in the finished piece. The end result will have tiny pits; the potential of a "high" polish is not obtainable. It is best to use new metal when ever possible; accurate compliance with the Federal Trade Commission karat stamping guidelines can also be properly maintained.
Should I have my estate or antique jewelry appraised?
Estate and antique jewelry appraisal is a highly specialized field. There are many gemstone "look-alikes" from glass to sophisticated synthetics. The first synthetic emeralds appeared in 1848 with sapphires and rubies close behind in 1885. We tend to think of synthetic gems as recent technology but they have been with us for several generations. Glass has always been the deceiver of the uneducated eye. We recommend you consult with a Certified Gemologist Appraiser, American Gem Society. A CGA can review your situation, and advise you of the best course of action.
If you have unanswered
estate jewelry questions, email Barbara Hight-Randall at
barbara@personaljeweler.com
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