Estate/Antique
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
Jewelry Buying & Consulting
If you need to have your jewelry evaluated for purchase Barbara and Randy can help. We have 35+ years of combined experience in the jewelry industry working with all types of appraisals & consulting – insurance, estate, consignment, acting as a broker or advice about charitable donations. We know that each and every piece is unique…”After all,” claims Randy, “everyone know there are only so many ’55 Chevy Belairs for sale, and jewelry is the same way too!”
Whether it’s your Great Aunt’s Victorian brooch or a jewel you no longer wear, we are always interested in purchasing diamond, karat gold and platinum jewelry from the selling public. We are discreet, as always, and offer the highest values in the market.
You can call and schedule an appointment to meet with us or you can bring your jewelry into the store for us to review. We will help you sort the valuable items from the costume jewelry; this consultation is at no charge. We also can provide additional services, such as, consignment, acting as a broker on your behalf or discussing gifting your item(s) to charity. If you decide to sell your item(s) payment is immediate.
Appraisals
Hight & Randall has been trusted by generations. It’s a legacy we take very seriously. So you can be sure that we leave no stones unturned when it comes to preparing insurance and estate appraisals for our customers.
Every gemstone, jewel and timepiece reviewed by Barbara Hight-Randall, a Certified Gemologist Appraiser by the American Gem Society, is measured and documented with the greatest accuracy and descriptive detail possible. Also a Gemological Institute of America Graduate Gemologist Barbara is enhanced with a thorough knowledge of current market values and understanding of the inherent values of a jeweler’s art.
Through the years, insurance companies have also come to rely on Hight & Randall to assist their clients when replacements for valued pieces are required. They depend on depth of our resources and ability to locate hard-to-find items.
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!"
In-store Advantage
No other purchase you make for the one you love will compare to that of buying a diamond.
Nature has created each diamond to be unique. Which is why when diamonds of the same quality are viewed side by side, only one will capture her heart; for this reason it is vital that you seek the guidance of a diamond professional and view a selection of several diamonds at the same time. Comparing grading certificates on a computer screen is no substitute for seeing and comparing actual diamonds.
In addition to fine diamonds, precious gems, designer jewelry and one-of-a-kind estate and antique pieces, we also offer expert jewelry repair, professional jewelry appraisals and the most sophisticatedgem lab in southern Minnesota.
The jewelry business is all about trust. We hope that you will stop in to meet us personally so that we can assist all your jewelry needs.
Repair
Our service counter is among the busiest in Rochester. Every piece of jewelry we take in – whether for cleaning, minor or extensive repairs is regarded with the utmost of respect and care. Please keep in mind that good work always takes time, we ask that you allow our expert craftsmen the time to attend to your jewelry with the same high level of professionalism that has been our reputation for years. We also think it’s important that you know what to expect. So we provide estimates for your approval before Hight & Randall’s craftsmen begin their work. At Hight & Randall your satisfaction is our ultimate goal.