Estate jewelry has a particular enchantment that newer pieces cannot replicate. It is a specific type of used jewelry crafted with utmost attention to detail and reflects the styles of the period in which it was made.
Knowing what to look for when shopping for estate jewelry online or in person will help you benchmark prices, identify pitfalls, and spot genuine treasures.
Quality
When purchasing estate jewelry, you are gaining access to a treasure that is typically of superior quality. This is because estate jewelry encompasses pieces from different eras, with its delicate lace designs or geometric style. The jewelry is carefully crafted with attention to detail, resulting in a durable, high-quality piece unmatched by modern jewelry.
Moreover, estate jewelers prioritize transparency and traceability when working with gemstones and precious metals. They carefully inspect and appraise each piece, ensuring that their inventory is authentic and of high value. They also monitor market trends to predict whether a particular style, period, or material will remain in demand or become less desirable over time.
In addition, estate jewelers are dedicated to making shopping a personalized journey by getting to know their clients’ tastes and preferences. This way, they can guide them through their selections and help them find a gem that holds deep meaning and beauty.
Timeless
Estate pieces are the perfect way to express your unique sense of style. They offer a rich, romantic flair that always goes in fashion. As long as you properly care for your jewelry, it will remain beautiful and lustrous for years.
A piece of estate jewelry is also more environmentally friendly than new jewelry made with natural gemstones. Because the gems used in vintage and antique jewelry were already mined, buying secondhand means you are not contributing to the depletion of natural resources.
In addition, estate jewelers are committed to helping you find an exceptional piece. They take the time to understand your preferences so you can find a treasure that resonates with you. They also understand the importance of educating their clients about the history and value of each item they sell. This allows you to make informed decisions and find a piece that will be an asset for life.
Invest in Yourself
Investing in yourself is essential to living a happy and fulfilling life. Whether taking a class to learn a new skill or setting financial goals, there are endless ways to grow as a person. However, many people must realize that investing in jewelry for themselves is as important as investing in their careers or finances.
Estate jewelry is preowned and often found at a much more affordable price than brand-new pieces. However, it’s essential to understand the difference between estate jewelry and vintage or antique jewelry.
Unlike vintage or antique jewelry, estate jewelry can be any age. It must be preowned, though, to be considered an estate. This includes jewelry once owned by a family member or friends and passed down to the current owner. The former owner’s age doesn’t have anything to do with whether the piece of jewelry is considered an estate. Vintage or antique jewelry must be at least 100 years old to be considered vintage or antique. This is because jewelry from these eras is often designed with specific themes or styles.
Value
If you want to be a jewelry collector, it’s essential to understand the difference between vintage, antique, and estate jewelry. The terms are often interchangeable, but the differences can save you money.
Generally speaking, any jewelry that has been previously owned is considered estate jewelry. The pieces may be from a specific era or style, or they could be modern, but they must have been previously owned.
Several factors, including rarity, maker, materials, condition, and demand, determine the value of estate jewelry. Knowing the history of a piece can also add to its value. For example, knowing that a famous person wore a particular necklace or bracelet can make it more desirable to collectors and enthusiasts. In addition, identifying the purity of precious metals and gemstones can significantly increase their worth. An appraisal from a professional is recommended to get an accurate valuation. Insurance replacement values are also an excellent place to start for those looking to sell or insure their heirlooms. Insurance replacement values consider all costs incurred to recreate a piece should it be lost, stolen, or damaged.
Style
Whether ornate pieces that transport you to another era or simple designs that are more modern and fashion-forward, estate jewelry offers timeless style, these are the pieces that will make an impact at a party or event, and they’re the ones that will be captured in photos and imprinted in people’s memories.
These pieces are also well-made and crafted with care and attention to detail that may not be found in newer jewelry. Plus, they come with a history and story that can add a layer of sentimentality to your collection.
The designer and maker of an estate piece contribute to its value, but many other factors influence how much a particular item will sell. The value of a piece can increase based on the purity of metals, such as gold and silver, and the quality of gemstones. The demand for these stones, their current market trends, and the rarity of a piece also help determine its worth. Estate jewelers can advise you on these things before you invest in a specific piece.
