Estate jewelry is not your average jewelry store stock. If you’re looking for a truly unique engagement ring or statement piece, estate jewelry is going to give you that head-turning design and craftsmanship you’re looking for to really make an impression. Not only this, but estate jewelry is jewelry that has already lasted through the tests of time, and is like to do so with proper care for many more years to come. We at Heritage Estate Sales come across some of the most beautiful estate jewelry pieces the Los Angeles area has to offer, and we want to make sure you can find the right piece.
5 things you need to know before looking for estate jewelry are:
1. Keep prices in mind
Just because jewelry is old, that doesn’t mean it’s going to come cheaper. Quality estate jewelry will be priced suitably when compared to today’s values of the stones and metals used, and when the price is too good, it may just be too good to be true. Learn what you’re looking for and what it may be valued around, and feel secure in your purchases that match up with the values you’re expecting.
2. Examine the patina
Due to oxidization over long periods of time, metals will develop a patina that seems like discoloration. When looking for estate jewelry, untouched pieces will often hold their quality and value better, which means they will often have a patina on the surface. Some pieces may be restored, but more often than not, these “vintage” pieces are actually vintage revivals, and not the estate jewelry real deal.
3. Bring a loupe
If you’re looking for estate jewelry, a loupe is a great thing to keep in your pocket. We know that not everyone just has a loupe on hand, and a magnifying glass will work just as well for your need. Why you want this loupe is to check for maker’s marks, which are pressed into not-immediately-visible areas of estate jewelry identifying its maker or where it was made. If there is no makers mark, or the piece is newer, the loupe can also help you to identify the metal stamp identifying the type of metal used in the piece.
4. As for documentation
While not always available, it’s never a bad idea to ask. Documentation for more expensive estate sale jewelry pieces can help to readily identify a ton of information about the piece, from where and when it was made, to the carat weight and metals used in the piece. Also, documentation can outline the appraisal value of the jewelry, which can make ensuring you’re getting a proper value much easier.
5. Inspect for quality
Not all pieces hold up the same, and the ones that remain beautiful after decades or generations are those that have been well cared for. Scratches and small dents are par for the course in estate jewelry, but other damages are a bit more serious and should be looked at critically when investing in estate jewelry. Corrosion, holes, and cracks aren’t often repairable, and may mean the end for the piece is near.
Estate sales are treasure troves for estate jewelry, providing a great platform for finding these rare and unique beautiful items. If you’re looking for your next estate investment, contact us at Heritage Estate Sales and we’d love to help you to find what you’re looking for.