Key Tactics the Pros Use to Value Antique Jewelry Collections

• Posted on 24th April 2023
• in Antique Gold and Jewelry, Antique Jewelry, antique jewelry appraisal, Antique Jewelry value
• by Alan

If you have an antique jewelry collection, it is understandable that you’re interested in how much it is worth. Professional antique dealers and jewelers will look for a variety of factors when determining the value of your rare antique jewelry, and by knowing these important aspects, you can get a better idea about what your collection is worth. Below are the following traits which increases the value of your jewelry collection…

Test the Diamonds

If your antique jewelry contains diamonds, professionals will test several aspects of the stone to determine the overall value. The quality of a diamond is determined by the four Cs: cut, color of the stone, clarity, and carat weight. Even slight differences in these qualities can make a major impact on the value of your antique jewelry collection.

Test the Metal

To determine the value of your antique jewelry, it is crucial to know what type of metal the piece is made out from. One way to determine this is to look for markings, usually found on the backside of an earring, inside a bracelet or ring, or on the clasp of a necklace.

Gold–Common hallmarks for gold include 375, 585, 750, 10K, 14K, and 18K
Silver–Common hallmarks for silver include Sterling, 800, Silver, and 925
Platinum–Common hallmarks for platinum include PLAT, PLATINUM, and 950

If your piece of estate jewelry is over 100 years old, these hallmarks might not be present, and you may need a professional to determine the metal content.

Determine the Specific Designer

Maker’s marks are also vital for determining who produced the piece, but it is sometimes difficult to find those tiny markings. A good jeweler’s loupe and proper lighting are crucial to find these hidden gems of information. Make sure that you examine every part of the item, paying special attention to the clasps, edges, and backside. Poor stamping, repairs, and subsequent polishing could have partially obstructed these markings, so they may require pretty close examination.

Inspect the Overall Condition

Professionals will also be concerned with the overall condition of any jewelry piece. This will involve inspecting the item for flaws, damage, and other problems that might affect the total value. Missing stones are especially common and can drastically alter the value of a piece.

Get Multiple Opinions

If you are planning to sell your antique jewelry, it is important to get more than one opinion on how much your collection is worth. There are vintage jewelry collectors that can inspect your collection to help determine the value – antique dealers, auction houses, and jewelry stores. If all of the valuations seem to be the same, you can trust that you are selling your pieces for a good price.

At Sarasota Antique Buyers, we have experience in valuing antique jewelry collections. We can provide you with a market analysis of your items, which is the value that they would likely sell for at an auction. If you are ready to sell your collection for value, we deal in Lido Key, Bird Key, Osprey and other surrounding areas of Florida and always ready to make you an offer. This is one of the quickest and easiest ways for you to sell your vintage fine jewelry pieces.