Here are 6 helpful tips I found and wanted to share
Step1
Ask yourself where the item came from. Was it passed down in your family from generation to generation? Then it might be antique--although not always necessarily so. Maybe you found the item in a flea market or estate auction. Antiques are stumbled upon in all these situations but remember, just because an item is old does not mean it is always an antique
Step2
Make a small investment in magazines and books about…
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Posted on February 10, 2009 at 8:45pm — 1 Comment
Below is an overview of the some of the styles of antique and estate jewelry from the 18th century to the 1950s. Many designations are based upon the names of Kings and Queens, most from the royals of the English monarchy. Others terms are derived from a variety of sources. However, countries such as France have their own classification for many of the same time periods - a number are noted here. Dates provided are only a guide. There is no precise year or moment when one stylistic period end…
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Posted on February 9, 2009 at 11:41am — 6 Comments
Care & Cleaning of Antique Jewelry
Jewelry which is open backed (usually made after 1840) can often be cleaned using a mild jewelry cleaner or even a window cleaning product that is based on ammonia and water. Often water alone is sufficient. A light rub with a soft, lint free cloth or a very soft old toothbrush used dry or in combination with these liquids can remove dirt and grease. However, opals, pearls, turquoise, and other soft and porous gems should never be cleaned in this…
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Posted on February 9, 2009 at 11:36am —
Berlin Iron Antique Jewelry
During the Napoleonic Wars (1789-1815) as in many wars, the populous of the Prussian region was encouraged to donate their gold and silver jewelry and tableware for the war effort. Berlin Iron became a substitute for finer metals. It was iron that was lacquered black and was worn by in place of the jewelry they surrendered. A few pieces are inscribed, "Gold gab ich fur Eisen" (I gave gold for iron). French artists also picked up the fashion and produced Ber…
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Posted on February 9, 2009 at 11:27am —
These are the standards by which diamonds are graded,
and ultimately determine their value. They are Cut, Color,
Clarity and Carat weight. Below is a brief
description:
CARAT WEIGHT
Contrary to popular belief, a large stone
alone does not a diamond valuable. While bigger can be
better, it's not the only factor. All the other C's carry as
much weight in the end, and be sure to use the size as a
factor, though not necessarily a determining one. A carat is
actually a measurement of weight, not…
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Posted on January 30, 2009 at 11:05am —