Category: Jewelry

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How to Clean Vintage Costume Jewelry

how to clean vintage costume jewelry

Why You Must Know How to Clean Vintage Costume Jewelry

By definition, vintage costume jewelry means old jewelry made with artificial or imitation gems and inexpensive materials. However, that does not automatically mean they are of lesser value. As a matter of fact, many vintage costume jewelry pieces are considered rare and come with extraordinary quality and craftsmanship that are worth a hefty price tag. 

For many people who own them, especially the collectors, they hold aesthetic and sentimental value. Many have become part of their family’s history and legacy. If you value your vintage jewelry and maintain its beauty and quality, it is important that you know how to clean vintage costume jewelry. 

How to Clean Vintage Costume Jewelry: Detailed Guide

No idea how? Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean vintage costume jewelry.

Dust them off

Before you even begin the cleaning process, make sure you dust off your jewelry using a soft brush. Be gentle when brushing your jewelries, as the tiniest of dirt can scratch the surface of your metal or stone. 

It would be wise to invest in a magnifying glass so you can clean your jewelry thoroughly, including the tiny crevices. 

cleaning solutions for vintage costume jewelry

Get the right cleaning products

First thing you need to learn about when it comes to taking care of your vintage jewelry is to know the type of cleaning products to use. Obviously, jewelries come in various designs, materials, and gemstones. You should know that different materials (different types of metals) and gemstones (precious or semi-precious) require different types of cleaning products and cleaning procedures. 

For example, gold darkens over time. A mixture of water and ammonia is used to bring back its original shade. The same thing can be used for platinum. Ammonia however, is quite strong and could potentially damage the metal when left for too long. Thus, experts always recommend using cleaning solutions dedicated to gold and platinum. Baking soda diluted into water is a good cleaning solution for silver. 

Dish washing soap is also a good alternative for cleaning jewelries. However, they are discouraged for pieces with gemstones as they can cause the stones to loosen on their settings or water could get trapped under the settings.

Precious gemstones like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires are commonly cleaned using diluted ammonia. For pearls, you can use a soft cloth with a few drops of olive oil to wipe their surfaces.

Others require different cleaning agents. Thus, it is worth knowing the applicable cleaning agents for various stones. If you are not sure what to do, call a local store or jeweler and ask for tips on what cleaning solutions to use. 

Cleaning the metals

Metals can easily accumulate and cause gunk (verdigris), when exposed to air, dirt, and dust. They are blue-green or green (mold) in color. If gunk is not properly cleaned off, they can spread throughout the metal and cause the jewelry to corrode. 

Also, gunk can spread to other jewelries, especially if contaminated pieces are kept in the same box or drawer with other jewelries. Here is a quick way to remove gunk:

  • Pour white vinegar on a container and soak the metal for 15 to 30 minutes
  • Wipe the jewelry dry
  • Remove the gunk using an old soft toothbrush or cotton swab. You can also use toothpick to gently scrape gunk in tight spaces

Cleaning semi-precious gemstones

Different semi-gemstones have different properties, and there are hundreds, if not thousands of them. Thus, it would be impossible to list them all in just one entry. There are, however, general tips on how to clean them.

When cleaning semi-precious gemstones, never immerse or soak them on anything. Subsequently, never use jewelry dips, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam clean the semi-precious stones. 

Here are some examples on how to clean popular semi-precious stones:

  • For coral, moonstone, turquoise, lapis lazuli, use slightly damp a soft and smooth cloth and use it to wipe the stones
  • For chalcedony, topaz, and onyx, you can wash them with soapy water and use a soft brush to brush them clean. Be gentle when brushing these stones, and rinse them quickly. 
  • For pearls, simply wipe them clean using a soft cloth. For cultured pearls, you can wash them using mild soapy water.

These are just general guidelines. To be safe, you can ask a jeweler how to clean vintage costume jewelry with different semi-precious stones. 

vintage costume jewelry cleaning tips

Cleaning rhinestones

There are two types of rhinestones commonly used for vintage jewelries, the open back and the foil back.

Cleaning open back rhinestones

  • Since this stone uses glass for both front and back, and not backed with silver or gold foil, they are pretty easy to clean. 
  • Pour lukewarm water on a small bowl and drop a couple of clear dishwashing liquid. Stir slowly to avoid bubbles. 
  • Soak the rhinestones into the soap mixture. Brush them thoroughly and slowly using a soft brush to clean.

Cleaning foil-back rhinestones

  • Foils are pretty fragile; a small scratch can lead to peeling and ruin the look of your stone. The color may also get cloudy, darken, or fade. Thus, be very careful when cleaning foil-back rhinestones. 
  • Also, never soak foil-back rhinestones on anything. Use a minimal amount of water and clean them quickly. 
  • Lightly moisten cotton swab, soft cloth, or old soft toothbrush using mild glass cleaner such as Windex. Brush the rhinestone slowly and carefully. 
  • Dislodge dirt on tight spaces using a plastic or wooden toothpick.
  •  Buff the rhinestone dry using a soft microfiber cloth. 
  • You can also use diluted baby shampoo as a cleaning solution. Make sure you do not get the rhinestones wet. 
  • The slightest of moisture can cause deterioration for both types of rhinestones. Thus, make sure you completely dry them using a soft cloth after cleaning. 

Cleaning enamels 

Enamels are dirt and debris magnets. They can quickly attract chemicals like oil-based lotions, dust, or anything that floats in the air. You may not easily notice the dirt with your naked eye, but they can definitely affect the shine of your enamel jewelry. Dirt and grimes can also cause damage to the structure of the jewelry. 

  • Put your enamel jewelry inside a nylon bag or old nylon stocking. Tie or zip it close.
  • Fill your sink with warm water and drop a few dishwashing liquid to make a soapy mixture.
  • Carefully place the nylon bag on the soapy water and move it around gently. Be careful not to hit the sink.
  • Soak the bag for 10 minutes.
  • Prepare a lint-free cloth on the side. Carefully remove each jewelry piece from the bag and place them on the cloth one by one. 
  • Use a soft toothbrush to remove dirt debris stuck in the jewelry. 
  • Drain the stink and then rinse your jewelry with running water one at a time. Use another dry soft cloth to dry the enamels.
  • You can use special polishing cloth to buff dry the enamels. 

Learning how to clean vintage costume jewelry properly can be daunting and time consuming since different materials require different cleaning solutions and procedures. But that’s part of the challenge in owning costume vintage jewelry, especially if you want to maintain their dainty beauty. 

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Expensive Vintage Costume Jewelry | How to Buy Vintage Jewelry

most expensive costume jewelry

Vintage jewelries are not only luxury accessories. They are precious works of art that represent an era, a certain period of time, and a moment in history. This is why they come with expensive price tags and their value increases over time. Consequently, more people are treating them as investments. If you are in the market to build your vintage jewelry collection or find the most expensive costume jewelry for investment, then you have to go to the right place. 

Here are the most important tips to get the best pieces for your money.

Understand what’s vintage

First, learn what makes a certain jewelry vintage. Definitions may vary, but the most commonly accepted standard is it should be at least 20 years old and less than 100 years old. If it is more than a century, then it’s considered antique. 

It is also important to note that vintage jewelries do not exclusively refer to jewelries made by master jewelers and designers. Fashion, fine, and costume jewelries can also be considered vintage. Many of the most expensive costume jewelry are actually vintage jewelry. That is despite the fact that many of them use faux stones. 

Prices for vintage jewelries range from $500 all the way to $1 million, or even more. The value depends on a lot of different factors, from the rarity of the materials used, the jeweler, and condition. No matter the price, the most expensive costume jewelry often has three things in common – rarity, condition, and craftsmanship.

So how do you buy vintage jewelry? Here are some tips to know. 

Know the vintage brands

The best way to start your journey is to identify some of the most well-known vintage jewelry brands out there. There is a reason why collectors are drawn to these brands, as they have history, style, and some of the rarest pieces ever produced. Many times, branded pieces hold sentimental value or interesting stories. Experts suggest getting these brands, especially those made in the 19th and 20th century.

Some of these brands include:

  • Bulgari
  • Boucheron
  • Buccellati
  • Cartier 
  • David Webb
  • Tiffany & Co. 
  • Van Cleef & Arpels
  • Verdura

You can never go wrong with these brands.

Knowing the pinnacle of the legacy of each brand can give you the most precious and rare pieces. That requires extensive research and work. 

most valuable costume jewelry

Know the different artists

As said earlier, the most valuable vintage pieces come with the best craftsmanship. If you are really passionate about expanding your collection, then you need pieces from the best jewelers in history. 

The more you know about the design and style of a specific designer, the more you will understand the value of their work. The same works with paintings, many of Picasso’s works are considered genius masterpieces, but some are not considered great. The key is to find the best from each collection. 

Know your style

The real value often lies on how jewelry fits with your own personality. Obviously, you want to buy things that you would love to wear and include in your collection. It is a very intimate experience and it takes a lot of knowing yourself. If it makes you feel good when you wear it, then you cannot go wrong with that.

Make sure that when you buy a piece, you consider the style. Will it stand the test of time? It is easy to fall in love with trendy styles but that is the exact opposite of collecting vintage. 

Figure out what you really like, what you really love to see yourself wearing. Do your research and scour the catalogs. Attend some auctions that specialize in vintage and learn about different styles, designs, designers, brands, and more. 

Scrutinize the jewelry

Now that you have a good idea what to look for and you know your style, then it is time to go out there and examine jewelry.

Scrutinize jewelries from all angles. Look thoroughly, from front and back. Vintage and antiques are expertly finished but not without signs of wear and tear. After all, it is old. 

Check the stamp (the signature of the jeweler or designer); examine the prongs, the quality and condition of the gemstones. If possible, try the jewelry yourself. Does it look and feel right when you wear it? If you find any issues, then that is a good reason to negotiate the price. 

Old should look old

As said earlier, vintage and antique jewelries come with great craftsmanship but not without signs of wear and tear. If the jewelry is truly old, then it should look old. 

If someone says a ring is more than 100 years old, yet the enamel looks pristine, then that is an obvious red flag. 

Size and weight are also good indicators of age. Many old chain jewelries, like the Georgian chain, were quite light. Most antique cuffs and rings tend to be smaller in size compared to today, this is because most people in that time period had smaller hands, wrists, and fingers. 

Research what you are buying

Do your due diligence to research and know more about a specific vintage piece before you commit. Get as much background information as possible. There are countless fakes out there, and the last thing you want is to spend your hard-earned money on fakes. 

If you know and trust someone in the vintage jewelry market, then it would not hurt to consult them before making any purchase. A good seller will let you take the piece to a professional for authenticity and quality check. 

buying expensive vintage costume jewelry

Know where to buy

There are lots of antique shops and jewelry stores that sell vintage jewelry. Many even sell the most expensive costume jewelry. Be open to every opportunity out there, you never know when you can find pieces you actually like. However, make sure you know where you are buying from. 

If you want designer jewelry, then go to a reputable and established store or antique dealer. 

If you are searching for items to buy in antique markets or shows, ask if you can take their jewelry to a reputable antique or vintage dealer and have the item you like professionally evaluate.

While there are ways to learn more about the ins and outs of vintage jewelry-buying, it is best to leave it to the experts on finding the right jewelry for your collection. Fortunately for you, there are lots of reputable retailers nowadays, both online and offline, who ensure the authenticity and quality of the vintage jewelry. You can find them by a simple online search. 

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4 Simple Steps to Determine the Value of Your Vintage Jewelry

Selling vintage jewelry you no longer use or wear is one of the best ways to earn a good amount of money. Perhaps you have a piece or two lying around the corner of your jewelry box that you want to sell. Selling antiques and vintage jewelry, however, can be daunting, especially if you don’t have experience on identifying its value. Obviously, you want to get the best value for your jewelry, but how do you exactly do that? Well, this entry will teach you how to identify vintage costume jewelry.

1. Know the terminologies

Antique vs. Vintage

They may seem similar but in the world of jewelry, they are extremely different from each other. For a piece to be considered vintage, it has to be at least 20 years old. This means Art deco, mid-20th, 70s and 80s, and retro are all considered vintage style jewelries. 

For it to be called antique, however, it has to be more than 100 years old. Both can be really valuable, but generally, well-maintained antique jewelry is worth so much more than a similar piece of the same quality. 

One way to know if it’s antique or vintage is to think about where you got the jewelry. If you remember purchasing it from a retailer in the past couple of years, then it’s definitely not vintage jewelry. If purchased from an antique shop, flea market, or an estate sale, then there’s a good chance it is vintage. In some cases, jewelry bought from these markets are rare and valuable. 

Style Eras

Learn about different styles like the art nouveau from the 1900s, Blakelite from the 1940s, the “new look” from the 1950s, etc. It pays to familiarize yourself with different styles from different eras, as this can help you quickly pinpoint the time and manufacturer a certain piece was made, and help you in knowing the item’s resale value. 

Fine vs. Costume 

Fine jewelry refers to jewelries made with precious metals like sterling silver, gold, platinum, or precious or semi-precious gemstones such as amethyst, diamond, emerald, garnet, pearl, opal, ruby, sapphire, etc. They are made with careful attention to details and with high-quality settings to secure the gemstones. 

Since it’s made with precious metals and real gemstones, they are durable and will never tarnish (with proper care and storage of course). They can be easily repaired when broken, as well.

Costume jewelries, on the other hand, are made with cheaper materials and were mass produced. The first challenge among newbies is learning how to identify vintage costume jewelry. 

Well, it’s pretty simple. Costume vintage jewelries also use precious metals, but instead of using solid precious metal, they are made with cheaper metal and plated with either silver or gold. The stones can also be rhinestones, plastic, glass, Swarovski crystals, or various inexpensive materials. Their design also tends to be bolder and louder. 

Though they were made with less expensive materials, costume vintage jewelries can also hold value over time, making them worth reselling. Many people, especially collectors like the certain vintage styles of the costume jewelry. Some designs are even considered iconic and often sold at a high price, depending on their condition. 

identify fine vs costume jewelry

2. Read the Hallmark

The “hallmark” is the stamp or tag on the metal piece of the jewelry. It indicates the type of metal and sometimes, even the designer or maker of the piece. Most, if not all fine jewelries come with hallmarks, unless the stamp has worn out. 

Costume jewelries can also come with a hallmark, but usually they are names of the manufacturer. 

For earrings, hallmarks are found in the post. For rings, it’s on the inside of the ring. For bracelets, they are placed near the clasp. For brooches, they are found at the back. Hallmarks for necklaces are often found on the tag. 

It is also important to note that having a hallmark does not automatically make a piece legitimate or real. Hallmarks can be faked, and counterfeiters have become really good at it. Obviously, a trained eye can easily spot fake hallmarks, especially from well-known jewelers like Cartier, Chanel, Dior, etc. Thus, it is always a good idea to have the jewelry appraised by a professional. 

3. Examine the jewelry

Scrutinize the jewelry piece. Turn it over and check every corner. Start with the craftsmanship. Does it show signs of being handmade or is it mass produced? While most handmade pieces are usually priced higher, mass produced pieces in mint quality condition can still be quite valuable. There were quite a lot of mass produced jewelry in the 1940s and 50s. 

Next, consider the materials used. Vintage and antique jewelries are usually made with gold, platinum, diamonds, and sapphires. Some less expensive pieces are made with silver, amethysts, and rhinestones. Look for the stamp using a magnifying glass as well. If the material is made with silver or gold, it will most likely have a stamp.

Next, check the cut of the gems and stones, as this can identify the era the jewelry was made. European and old mine cut diamonds are no longer produced, which means they can be really old and valuable. 

Then, for bracelets, necklaces, or pins, then check the clasps. Clasp styles can indicate a certain time period as well. Antique and vintage pieces mostly use box and ring clasps.  Most clasps used today were not widely used until the 70s. 

Next, look for the trademark of the designer. Jewelry designers use certain logos as an identifier of their work. Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel, Christian Dior, and Tiffany for example, place certain marks in their jewelry as their signature.

Track the paperwork of the jewelry, if possible. If it came from an estate sale or an inherited piece, then there’s a good chance it comes with a certification of authentication. Paperwork can help identify the authenticity of the jewelry. 

tips to identify vintage costume jewelry

4. Have it verified by a professional

If you believe that your jewelry is worth something, the best way to know its true value is to have it professionally appraised. Research the best appraisers in your area who specialize in vintage and antique jewelries. These people know how to identify vintage costume jewelry and help you get its maximum value. 

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Vintage Cartier Love Bracelets For Women

vintage cartier love bracelets for women

The Love Bracelet from Cartier is one of the most iconic pieces of jewelry of all time. It was designed in 1969 but remains a popular piece collected by jewelry lovers. Find out what the Vintage Cartier love bracelets are all about and why they’re worthy of an investment.

Introduction to Vintage Cartier Love Bracelets

Aldo Cipullo designed the famous LOVE bracelets for Cartier – a luxury good designer – in 1969. The original version of the Vintage Cartier bracelet was made with gold plating but the newer versions were made of either platinum or solid gold. 

Since there are many newer versions made with different materials, the prices do differ significantly. Some of the most expensive bracelets can cost as much as $56,000. As of 2019, this line of bracelets was still in production and has even expanded to other types of jewelry items, not just bracelets. Nowadays, the LOVE line now offers necklaces, watches, rings, earrings, and cufflinks, to name a few. 

Despite its popularity, the Love bracelets were not without criticism, though. In particular, it is often compared to the chastity belts that were common during medieval times. The starting price of these bracelets is at $6,300 (those made with pink and yellow gold) and $6,750 for those made with white gold. 

Fascinating Facts about Vintage Cartier Love Bracelets

Since time immemorial, jewelry has been associated with status symbols and wealth. The same thing can be said of Cartier bracelets and jewelry. Here are a few interesting facts you need to know about the vintage Cartier love bracelets before you shop for one:

  • It is known as the “modern love handcuff” because it is designed to fit the wearer’s wrist. They are also secured using a screwdriver.
  • At the time it was created, the Love bracelet changed the way jewelry was designed. Some of the jewelry designs in the past were meant to match an outfit. The Love bracelets were the first ones that were not made to specifically match an outfit.
  • The first few designs were made of silver or were gold plated. The newer versions were made of solid gold. 
  • The first diamond-studded Love bracelets were released into the market in 1979. 
  • The distinctive screws that were part of the Love bracelets design were inspired by the very same tools that its designers worked with in his studio.
  • The initial design of the Love bracelets was created by its designer Aldo Cipullo at his workshop studio, not in the Cartier’s headquarters in Paris. 
  • The serial numbers in the Love bracelets were added after there were many counterfeit products that emerged in the market. 
facts about vintage cartier love bracelets

Why Are They Expensive?

The vintage Cartier Love bracelets are one of the most popular designer jewelry ever created. Therefore, it is an iconic jewelry that is highly sought after by women all over the world. While many aspire to have one, only a select few can actually afford it. 

Simply put, Cartier bracelets are expensive. But how expensive are they, really? 

On average, a Love bracelet will have a starting price of $4,000 while the most expensive design costs $56,000. There are vintage and pre-owned ones that cost $3,200. But if you are shopping for this vintage jewelry, you know the price point to look at and how much budget to set aside for it.

The type of metal used is one of the reasons why it is extremely expensive. White gold is one of the most common materials used, which is more expensive than pink or yellow gold. The width of the bracelet can also impact its cost. The classic Love bracelets measure 6.1 mm in width and it is more costly than the smaller ones (3.65mm in width). 

The addition of gemstones is also another factor that can impact its price tag. Bracelets with a single diamond will set you back at $5,300 and for the ones with up to four diamonds the price can go up to $10,000. There are also bracelets made with pave diamonds that don’t go lower than $24,000. The more blinged-out the design, so to speak, the more expensive it will be.

All of these details can add up to making this Love bracelet very expensive. If you want to have your own Cartier bracelet, you can shop for authentic but pre-owned pieces online. Just make sure to validate your sources to ensure the authenticity of the jewelry item. The pre-owned bracelets have an average cost of $5,300 or lower. 

tips for buying cartier love bracelets

Tips for Buying Cartier Love Bracelets

Due to their popularity, vintage Cartier love bracelets are one of the most popular products among counterfeiters. If you want to add one to your collection, you need to do your research and know what to look for to ensure that you buy only the authentic pieces. 

One of the best ways to identify counterfeit items is with the shape of the bracelet itself. The fake ones are shaped round so they look more like bangles. However, the original Cartier bracelets are oval in shape that is similar to the structure of your wrist. 

Aside from the wrist, the weight of the bracelets is another thing that would hint at the authenticity. An original Cartier bracelet should have enough weight to it to withstand the wear and tear of constant use. It should not be lightweight or easily bend. 

Examine the bolts when shopping for Cartier love bracelets, too. Keep an eye out for bolts that are not properly aligned or if the hallmarks appear sloppy or too shallow. 

The best way to ensure the authenticity of vintage Cartier love bracelets is to buy them from reputable stores locally or online. It is important that the jewelry stores are certified and are reputable enough. If the store or website you are buying them from are selling other counterfeit items, or if the jewelry pieces are cheaper than the suggested retail price of these vintage items, then you need to be wary. 

Do your research about the seller to make sure that they are authentic and certified. A little savings can be tempting but you could end up with a counterfeit item that does not have any real value. 

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What Your Jewelry Collection Needs | Anatomy of Jewelry Collection

anatomy of a necklace

Jewelry completes your look. While they are often viewed as fashion accessories, they actually do more than that. They bring out your personality and boost confidence. However, starting a jewelry collection can be quite daunting. 

With thousands of choices out there, it is easy for anyone to feel confused and overwhelmed. While there are no hard and fast rules on how to do it, there are ways to simplify the process, get all the essentials, and help you enjoy the process. 

Anatomy of a Necklace & Jewelry Collection: Tips for Buying

Here are some pointers to build your jewelry collection. 

  • Make sure you take a purposeful approach in building your collection. Do not feel pressured to buy everything.
  • Quality over quantity.
  • Remember that there is no deadline for this, so take your time.
  • Consider your personality; get the pieces that you actually would want to wear.
  • Be versatile and flexible. Make sure you can style jewelry for different looks and different occasions.
  • It’s good to stick with the classics. But don’t be afraid to try something new.

Here are some staples of a good and versatile jewelry collection.

Anatomy of a necklace collection

Chain Necklace

Chain necklaces never go out of style. There is nothing more versatile than this and there are tons of options to choose from to fit any outfit. The biggest question when it comes to chain necklaces however, is choosing between solid gold and gold plated. 

Obviously, the former is far more expensive than the latter. Also, plated gold fades over time and will expose the metal underneath, which means you may have to bring it to a jeweler and have it re-plated. 

Solid gold is far more durable and will never fade. However, they can feel heavy on your neck. If you want a lighter (and more affordable) necklace, then you can opt for a hollow chain necklace. 

Also, consider the link type. Box chain and wheat chain links are easier on the skin and clothes and far more durable. They do not twist like flat, herringbone, and omega type links. Round snake chain may look luxurious but they are prone to catch your hair and clothes, causing kinks and damages that may be difficult to repair.

Statement Necklace

Want to grab attention and make heads turn? Wear a statement necklace and spice up your look. Statement necklaces look great when paired with solid-colored blouses and dresses, both for casual and formal environments. The great thing about this is there are so many designs and styles to choose from, such as, bold and large, intricate details, single color, colorful, beads, and gemstones.

Pendant Necklace

The best way to grow your collection is to have pieces with sentimental value or significant meaning for you. A delicate pendant necklace can be perfect for this, they are unobtrusive and elegant even for casual everyday outfits. You can choose the pendant of your birthstone, the initials of your loved ones, among others. 

Dainty Necklace

Whether short or long, a dainty necklace is a staple and an absolute must-have for any jewelry box. If you are tall and slim, then a long dainty necklace will look great on you. If you are shorter, your best choice to accentuate your stature is a shorter necklace. 

Anatomy of an earrings collection

Diamond Stud Earrings

Elegant, timeless, and understated, diamond stud earrings sparkle and shine to any outfit. Medium-sized (0.30 to 0.75 carat per stone) is the best, as you can wear them with almost anything. Also, choose colour G to H, with a clarity of VS2-SI1, they sparkle so much better. 

Hoop Earrings

Simple and versatile, oversized gold hoop earrings are fabulous casual and summer accessories. You can choose light weight designs for comfort. Mid-sized chubby hoops are great for everyday glam look. Colored hoops, pear-adorned, or embellished with diamonds look amazing for after-dark elegant look. 

Drop Earrings

If you want to mix fun and classic, then get a pair of drop earrings. They are the epitome of glamour and great for special occasions. They dangle low and they come in so many great designs (even intricately designs), colors, and even bright and sparkly stones to pair with any outfit. 

earrings and necklace anatomy

Anatomy of a bracelet collection

Bold Dangles

Bold dangles are another versatile piece you can wear day or night, dressed down or dressed up. You can wear them on their own or pair it with fabulous earrings. 

Some dangle styles you can choose include one solid material, made with mixed materials, wide surface, stiff and circular, with or without designs. 

Tennis Bracelet

Relatively simple, unassuming, but classic and elegant, tennis bracelets, or more commonly known as river bracelets, are popular as gifts. They are made popular by professional tennis player and fashion icon Chris Evert, when she lost her diamond bracelet during a match in the 1987 US Open. 

Tennis bracelets look even more stunning when embellished with diamonds. Thus, when buying this jewelry, pay attention to the metal used and the quality of the diamonds. They come in various metals such as sterling silver, gold, rose gold, yellow gold, or platinum. 

Anatomy of a ring collection

Cocktail Rings

Looking for a single piece that can make a statement? Well, that is exactly what cocktail rings are for. They are large and usually worn at the right hand, either on the ring or index finger, to draw attention when you sip a drink from your glass – hence the name cocktail ring. Thus, they are perfect for evening events. For casual looks that stand out, you can finish the tee, relaxed blazer, and jeans combo with a cocktail ring. 

Traditional design features colored gemstones with diamond accents. Nowadays they come in many different materials, gemstones, and designs. You can choose whatever color and metal combination you like.

anatomy of jewelry collection

Classic Watch

No jewelry collection can be completed without a classic watch. Watch is the ultimate everyday accessory, and in most cases, the finishing piece to complete any looks with minimal effort.

You can never go wrong with the classic clean design of a metal bracelet. They look timeless and professional, yet sturdy and reliable. For an elegant look, you can choose rectangular or square dials. They are perfect for evening events. Round dials are good for every day outfits, as they work with almost any looks. 

If you cannot choose between yellow gold, white, pink straps, then refer to the color of your favorite handbag. If your tote comes with gold touches, then pick a gold watch. Still cannot decide? Choose two tone straps. Stay away from too colorful watches, as they may compete against your outfit. 

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Types Of Brooches And How To Wear Them

types of brooches

Brooches have made a comeback in recent years. This vintage jewelry item has made a resurgence in that many notable fashion brands like Dior and Gucci are introducing new designs for this well-loved jewelry  item. In fact, they are taking over modern runways and are used as accents for a number of ways such as clipping it onto silk scarves, onto their hair, and lapels. 

There is a recent brooch revival that you can get on if you are into vintage style. If you want to add a timeless piece into your jewelry collection, discover the different types of brooches that are available for you to collect. 

History of Brooches

Brooches are a classic type of jewelry. They have been around for centuries and are one of the oldest forms of accessories for men and women alike. The styles available have greatly evolved over the decades and they are now considered to be high-end pieces that are now seen in runways and red carpet fashion. 

This type of jewelry has seen major transformation over the years bringing new style options to a timeless piece. For this reason, they are a favorite among jewelry collectors because they are highly prized. 

Believe it or not, brooches were not used as ornamental jewels as they are seen today. They were more utilitarian and functional items as they were primarily used to secure items such as pieces of your clothing. The first types of brooches that were released into the market were made of flint and thorns. Meanwhile, the earliest record of brooches shows they were crafted with metal. 

During the time of the Celts and Vikings, the use of brooches became more popular and they were worn by men and women alike. They also showcased an exquisite level of detailing. Over time, mourning brooches also gained popularity and these were available in oval shapes with various depictions (typically to represent sorrow and mourning). This was kept by the loved ones left behind as the brooches were inscribed with the name and other essential information about the deceased. 

It was during the Byzantine period when brooches evolved into ornamental pieces, although their purpose of fastening certain pieces of cloth together remained the same. As their use as ornamental pieces grew, there were newer and more elaborate designs that became available. Over the years, they had various designs and had many symbols.

What Are the Types of Brooches

In the 20th century, brooches evolved but remained popular. They are mostly used as fashion and ornamental pieces. In fact, some of the world’s most renowned fashion houses were producing them such as Van Cleef & Arpels, David Webb, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co. 

There are many styles of brooches available and are considered high-end pieces. In fact, Queen Elizabeth is regularly seen with one. If you would like to add one to your collection, it is important to know the different types of brooches available. This will help you choose the best one to add to your collection. 

Bar Brooch

This type of brooch is a pin-type that is available in various shapes and sizes. It is one of the most widely available types in the market and also commonly used. The bar pin style facilitates easy fastening with the help of its looped fastening design. This can be attached to the lapel of your coat or blazer, or used as a hair pin (if desired).

There are many styles available depending on which era it was made from or inspired by. 

brooch types and designs

Pendant Brooch

This is another highly versatile type of brooch that can be used as it is or as part of a necklace (as a pendant). The opposing side of it usually comes with concealed bales where the chain can be attached to when worn as part of a necklace. On the other hand, the pin is invisible to the naked eye once used as a pendant. This is another popular type of brooch because of its versatility. 

Foliate Brooch

This type of brooch is called as such because it often features floral motifs. Traditionally, they were given to another person as a sign of love or friendship. This is reminiscent of the forget-me-not chants that became popular during the 19th century.  

Over the years, the styles have changed and evolved but the demand for floral brooches have remained quite high. 

Portrait Brooch

This is reminiscent of the 18th century brooches that feature a miniature portrait as its main design. The mini portrait can be painted on the mother of pearl, ivory, or porcelain. The vintage pieces were typically commissioned by a member of the family to honor another loved one or the deceased. 

Enamel Brooch

Enameling is one of the greatest forms of art that showcases the tremendous skill of the craftspeople who make them. This is the go-to choice for those who want embellished brooches without using gemstones. The process of making enamel dates back to the times of Ancient Greece. 

types and function of brooches

How to Wear Different Types of Brooches

Even though brooches are considered formal and vintage in appeal, there are fun ways you can try to wear them. There are no hard and fast rules on how you can wear them. However, the right styling approach can help to elevate your look. Here are a few ideas you can try depending on the types of brooches that you want to use.

  • Attach it to your scarf 
  • Clip it to one side of your dress or blouse
  • Clip it to a hat or beanie
  • Attach it to a bag or clutch
  • Pin it to your sweater
  • Pin it to the lapel of your coat or blazer
  • Use it to bring two ends together (such as for your cardigan)
  • Pin it to your hair
  • Pin it to the waist of your skirt or pants
  • Wear it like lapel pins
  • Wear it like a pendant

If you want to get your hands on vintage brooches, they are widely available online or in your local antique jeweler. There are several types of brooches and they come in various designs – from simple to elaborate – so you can always find one to suit your style preference. 

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Vintage Bridal Earrings For Your Wedding

choosing vintage earrings for your wedding

You have picked the perfect wedding dress, the perfect wedding shoes, and the perfect wedding hairstyle and makeup. Now, you have to figure out what earrings to wear for the big day when you walk down the aisle. For a lot of women, their wedding day is the most important day in their lives. Therefore, choosing the right jewelry to compliment your dress is a pivotal choice. If you are not sure what to get, vintage bridal earrings are a safe bet.

However, it is more than a safe option – it has its own unique appeal that makes quite a statement. Whether you are a fan of vintage jewelry, you will appreciate its beauty and style impact once you see your wedding photos.

Why Choose Vintage Jewelry for Your Wedding

There are currently a wide range of jewelry designs and trends available to choose from. For brides, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your options among this extensive list of jewelry styles. When you are not sure what to get, you can stick with vintage jewelry options. 

Why would you want to choose this style for your big day? Here are some of the reasons why you need to consider vintage jewelry. 

  • It is unique. Vintage jewelry has a unique style that makes them stand out. Unlike today wherein most jewelry pieces are mass manufactured, these jewelry pieces were made in smaller batches. This makes every piece unique and valuable. If you want to incorporate these rare details to your wedding, you can’t go wrong with vintage jewelry.
  • It is special. Whether you buy vintage jewelry or it was gifted to you, there is something special about these old pieces. You do not need to have an old soul in order to appreciate the value of these lifelong treasures. However, it does give more meaning to your already special day.
  • It tells a story. Vintage jewelry pieces have been around for decades, if not centuries. It has been passed down from one generation to another. If you are wearing vintage jewelry that was gifted by your mother or grandmother, these items have their own provenance and it can hold a fascinating story that is shared within the family. 
  • It is good for the environment. If you are eco-conscious and you want to reduce environmental impact, choosing vintage jewelry is a great way to showcase that. Instead of buying something new, re-using old and vintage items can reflect on your personal ethics and have less impact on the environment. 
the appeal of vintage bridal earrings

The Appeal of Vintage Bridal Earrings

Now that the benefits of choosing vintage jewelry have been established, it is important to look specifically into the aesthetic value of vintage bridal earrings. If you are a fan of vintage styles, then it should not be hard to convince you of the aesthetic appeal of wearing vintage earrings. 

One of the things that make vintage earrings appealing is the level of detail in every piece. Vintage styles are known for their elaborate details and excellent craftsmanship. These pieces are made with the finest quality materials that are long lasting and durable. Hence, they can last for many decades and are handed down from generation to generation. 

It is also a beautiful throwback to pay homage to the golden eras of the 1940s to the 1970s and beyond. From the glamour and structure of the art deco style, to the elegance of the 1950s, and exquisite showcase of precious gemstones, there are several styles for you to choose from. 

Unlike current trends in the jewelry industry that might come and go, vintage styles have been around for many years. It has endured the test of time and will never go out of trend. Therefore, it is the best choice for brides on their big day, especially those who are looking for those brides with a vintage soul and an eye for timeless styles. 

Buying Vintage Bridal Earrings

Some brides are gifted with vintage earrings from their mothers or grandmothers (which they wore to their own wedding). But if you were not gifted with one, you can always shop for vintage bridal earrings that you can wear on your wedding day. There are several jewelry stores (local or online) that sell vintage earrings that you can wear as you walk down the aisle.

There are a few things you need to know to get the perfect pair of earrings for your big day. 

First off, you need to find the best place to buy vintage jewelry online. This is an important first step because there are many online shops that claim to specialize in vintage jewelry. However, there are a few markers that would indicate if a jewelry item is authentic or not. These markers could vary from one vintage brand to another. Therefore, you need to research beforehand if you are looking for a specific brand. 

It is also recommended that you shop only from reputable jewelers. Check the jeweler’s reputation before you buy from them. For example, you need to know how many years they have been in business and what their clients have to say about their jewelry pieces. 

buying vintage bridal earrings

The next step is to choose your ideal style. Vintage earrings come in a variety of style options depending on which era they are from. For example, you have to choose between stud, drop, dangle, or chandelier earrings styles. You can also find Art Deco styles if you want something unique. Meanwhile, there are those that depict elegant minimalism. 

You can determine your own style and what you want to portray as part of your wedding look. You can even use your wedding dress as an inspiration for determining which style of vintage bridal earrings would complete your look. 

If you have fallen in love with the iconic style of vintage jewelry, then you can channel that love for timeless and classic designs by wearing vintage pieces on your wedding day. With the right vintage earrings, you can take your wedding look to the next level, especially since all eyes will be fixated on you! 

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What is Monet Jewelry? The World’s Favorite Vintage

monet vintage jewelry

When it comes to jewelry, they are not all created equal. Some are good but they are not always as valuable or long lasting as the others. This is what sets vintage jewelry apart. They can stand the test of time and even become more valuable over time. If you are an avid vintage jewelry collector, then you might want to get hold of one of the most sought after vintage pieces out there – Monet Jewelry.

History 101: Monet Jewelry

When you say Monet Jewelry, it actually refers to a brand of vintage costume jewelry. This brand was synonymous to high-end accessories and at one point was the most sought after jewelry brand in the world. The company was established by two brothers – Jay and Michael Chernow – who named the company ‘Monocraft Products Company’. 

They initially sold handbags with gold- and silver-plated embellishments. They quickly gained the public’s attention because of the quality and design of their bags. By the 1930s, they branched out into making jewelry. Due to the economic crisis at that time, many women couldn’t afford high-end jewelry so they turned to costume jewelry. It was an opportunity that the brothers capitalized on until the company changed its name to Monet. 

During this time, they transformed from making high-quality women’s handbags to high-end jewelry. Their jewelry collection included earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and brooches. They became known as the first company to manufacture their own jewelry pieces with their own trademark.  

Evolution of Monet Jewelry

Since it broke out into the industry in the 1930s, Monet Jewelry continues to be highly sought after. Since its heyday in the 1930s to the 1940s, the jewelry designs have greatly evolved. The level of craftsmanship stayed the same but the design approach and materials used have evolved. 

Over the years, they have introduced various jewelry pieces to add to their collection. In the 1950s, they introduced statement bracelets and necklaces. By the 1960s, charm bracelets became famous while Monet made the clip-on earrings trend popular in the 70s. The 1980s marked the arrival of loud and colorful jewelry styles with a heavy focus on metalwork. In the 1990s, Monet continued to evolve with the times. 

Despite the evolution of their jewelry pieces, one thing remains the same: Monet Jewelry exudes that high-end look while keeping their pieces within an affordable price range. 

history of monet jewelry

Current Designs of Monet Jewelry

Since its formation in the 1930s, Monet Jewelry has had various ownerships. These changes in ownership have resulted in a changing approach in terms of design and focus for the jewelry line.

As of 2000, Monet was purchased by Liz Claiborne and she continued the tradition of the brand. It is still one of the most recognized manufacturers of vintage jewelry items in the world. They have also stayed true to the brand’s identity in keeping the prices within accessible range for consumers. They have pieces priced as low as $30 and this can go up depending on the type of material used. 

The company was well known for its excellent metalwork. Therefore, you can find plenty of pieces that exemplify this such as the chunky Monet bracelets that were popular in the 1980s and the gold-tone rings that came with large faux diamond and diamond accents to the sides. Some of the other popular materials used for making Monet vintage jewelry pieces were brass and faux gemstones. 

It is the mark of a vintage piece that the pieces were a product of quality craftsmanship. The excellent triple plating techniques that were used in many of Monet’s pieces was not just for aesthetic value. They were also part of the reason why these pieces are highly durable and can withstand wear and tear. 

Despite the changes in ownership, the commitment to deliver high-end and high-quality jewelry pieces at an affordable price remains. 

Tips for Shopping

If you want to get a piece of Monet Jewelry, you are not alone. As one of the most famous jewelry brands, many are aspiring to have this vintage brand’s jewelry pieces as part of their collection. Due to its popularity, there is a risk of counterfeit items being sold online passing off as the real thing.

To the uninitiated, they won’t be able to tell the authentic Monet from the counterfeit ones. Therefore, it is important to know how to identify this vintage jewelry to avoid buying the fake ones. 

First and foremost, Monet is the first vintage costume jewelry brand that stamped their hallmark on every piece they made. A good way to validate the authenticity of a vintage jewelry piece is to look for that hallmark “Monet” stamp. This is visible in either bold or script letters at an invisible section of the jewelry. 

The next thing you have to know when shopping for this vintage jewelry is to know where to buy, especially online. You need to be extra careful when buying online because you won’t be able to physically examine the item upon purchase. Thus, you need to be extra cautious when choosing where you shop from and ensure their credibility. 

To ensure the authenticity of the Monet vintage jewelry you buy, make sure to get them only from vintage jewelry specialist stores. It is also important to know the average cost of every piece so you can use it as a gauge when comparing prices online. The general rule is that if it is too good to be true, then it probably is. No Monet vintage jewelry should be priced below $30 and the high quality ones can set you back hundreds of dollars. 

shopping for monet jewelry

The Bottom Line

Monet Jewelry will continue to be one of the most in-demand pieces in the vintage market. If you want to invest in them, you need to be extra cautious because there are many stores that will try to capitalize on their popularity. Make sure you do your research and give it due diligence when buying online. This is to ensure that you can get authentic pieces to add to your collection and make it worth the investment. 

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Amethyst Gemstone Benefits: Vintage Jewelry

amethyst gemstone blog

A Brief History of Amethyst

Even during ancient times, Kings and Queens decorated crowns with amethyst. It was one of the most precious gemstones worn when leading the royal kingdom. Amethyst was a symbol of royalty and power. Rare and hard to find, wearing Amethyst was a sign that you were one of the elites.

Religious leaders displayed this rare gemstone on robes and headwear. Yes, there was a day, a time, and a place, when Amethyst was almost impossible to find. It was a gemstone reserved for a special class, available only for the very wealthy. Only the very affluent could afford to purchase this scarce gemstone.

It’s all about the Color

Not only was the amethyst rare because it was difficult to locate in nature’s treasures, but the color purple was in limited supply. Back in the olden days, before you or I were around, or our parents or grandparents, way back, purple was a challenging color to dye, Nature had a solution for creating purple jewelry, it was amethyst.

Amethyst gemstones ranged in color from lilac to deep purple. The combination of color and scarcity made this gemstone available and affordable only for the very rich.

From Scarcity to Abundance

When Amethyst was discovered in Brazil and Uruguay, the supply increased, and Amethyst became both abundant and affordable. You didn’t have to be a member of the royal kingdom to wear amethyst, and you didn’t have to be a cardinal or bishop, to own this gemstone, it was available and affordable for many. Yes, the ordinary can now decorate with this extraordinary purple gem, without breaking the bank.

It turns out, nature had an abundance of these purple quartz gemstones. In fact, it is one of the most plentiful gemstones in the earth’s treasure chest. Cleopatra would be shocked to learn how much amethyst is in the world!

amethyst-gemstone

Victorian Sterling Silver Ring Faceted Amethyst Cubic Zirconia Stones Cocktail on eBay

The Jewelry

Amethyst, a quartz crystal is frequently crafted into beautiful jewelry pieces. Whether you are looking for new jewelry, or a vintage jewelry piece sporting a real gemstone, amethyst can be found everywhere.

Sometimes crafted into real gold, and sometimes crafted into the gold plate. Sometimes set in sterling silver and sometimes set in silver plate, amethyst may be one of the most abundant gemstones discovered in the universe. Take a look in Grandma’s Jewelry box, and you will probably discover Grandma owned a piece or two of amethyst.

How Much is Amethyst Worth

Amethyst purple in color but the deeper the purple, the more valuable the gemstone, and the higher the price. A deep purple color, a couple of reddish highlights, and a large stone command the highest price. And of course, the cut and carat of the gemstone determine the value.

A Price guide can be found here at Price Guide for Amethyst

Don’t let the quantity of this beautiful purple gemstone steer you away from wearing something rare.

The Metaphysical Characteristics of Amethyst

Amethyst is greater than a quartz crystal that shimmers and shines, the metaphysical interpretations of amethyst are powerful.

Amethyst originates from the Greek word, “Amethysts” which means sobriety. The belief is wearing amethyst jewels, or holding a gemstone close, will keep you from getting drunk. That is helpful if you are a religious leader, delivering a sermon after sipping on a glass of wine. It might not work really well if you are a member of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Tense stressed, need to relax, Amethyst is a calming gemstone.  Clarity and tranquility may be the reason why religious leaders adorn this jewel in their religious attire. Many meditate wearing or holding this sparkling, purple gem.

Amethyst gemstones are known for stilling and turbulent thoughts from antiquity to the contemporary world. It’s a great gemstone to carry or wear when meditating, leading a religious sermon, or emulating kings and queens. Wear amethyst and you will feel like royalty.

The Birthstone

Every month of the year has a birthstone, a special gemstone for the month you were born. Amethyst is the birthstone for people born in February.

Whether you want to emulate royalty, or need calm and tranquility, or just need to stay sober, amethyst is a great gemstone to wear. It might even be simpler than all of that. It might just be that this sparkling purple gemstone is the perfect match for an outfit that you want to wear. Don’t have a piece of amethyst, or need another? Check here at grandmasjewelry123.com

You can explore and buy a wide range of Vintage Amethyst Jewelry collection by clicking the link in this line.

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Tigers Eye Gemstone: Courage

tigers eye gemstone

Tigers Eye Gemstone: You would expect a tin man to need a heart, and a scarecrow a brain, but it’s surprising to learn that a lion wants courage. A lion is big and burly and evokes fear in many. The lion in the Wizard of Oz begins as a bully, but when Dorothy smacks him on the nose, his vulnerability appears.

Author: Tammy S. Pinkerton

Dorothy and the Lion

“My what a big fuss you’re making.” “When you go around picking on things weaker than you are.” “Why you are nothing but a big coward, says Dorothy. The lion responds crying, “You’re right. I am a coward. I even scare myself”.

“Look at the circles under my eyes. I haven’t slept in weeks.” The tin man asks, why don’t you try counting sheep? “That wouldn’t do me any good, I am afraid of them”.

Tiger’s Eye was another solution

What if Dorothy had looked the lion right in the eye and said “here put on this tiger’s eye necklace” Tigers Eye will give you all the courage that you need to make this journey along this yellow brick road.

Visit our Vintage Jewelry Shop for many kinds of stones.

Tiger’s Eye Colors

Tigers Eye Gemstone even matches the colors of the yellow brick road. Some browns and yellows make it shine.  Too bad, it never occurred to Dorothy to give the lion a tiger’s eye necklace, or bracelet, or even a pin. The journey would have been much smoother, much easier to begin.

Tigers Eye Promotes Inner Strength

Tigers eye is known to develop and promote inner strength. It’s the stone to wear when you are afraid to begin. It’s the gemstone to wear when you need courage.

After the long journey along the yellow brick road,  the lion is ready to tackle the demons, inside the castle, and accept bravery from Oz, as if it is going to be packaged in a box.

Tigers Eye Evokes Bravery

The story could have been packaged so differently, so much easier, than traveling through a winding, seemingly endless, yellow brick road. A brown and yellow gemstone, found from the ground, worn around the neck, or hugging the wrist, would have done the trick. But No, they decided to take the longest most turbulent dangerous method to reach Oz, where they spent days terrified, they wouldn’t survive, fearing for their lives.

Tigers Eye is called the evil eye. Tiger’s eye can ward off the evil spirits standing in the way. The evil witch of the West, the bats flying overhead, all would have been pushed out of the way with the simplicity of the Tiger’s eye gemstone.

 Tigers Eye Gemstones is the gemstone to wear when you need to be brave, when you need inner strength.

Yes, the journey could have been so very different with a tigers eye gemstone, by the lions side.

Tiger’s Eye Gemstone and Ancient Civilizations

In ancient civilizations, soldiers and warriors found answers in the ground and brought tiger’s eye gemstones into battle to break through obstacles.

The ancient warriors knew Tigers Eye would shift focus, give them inner strength, and evoke bravery to ward off evil forces standing in the way.

Dorothy and the lion were born in the Hollywood era. When the belief was that the man behind the curtain would bring the answers to fear and uncertainty. The moment, they finally reached the man behind the curtain. They were surprised to discover he was a fraud and appalled. When he tried to float up and out, dismissing the journey they had made.

Oz gave the lion a medal. He should have given him the tigers eye gemstone instead.

Yes, the story would have been so different had the lion sought the answers from nature’s treasures, hidden in the land. Then again, we wouldn’t have been entertained.

The Tigers Eye Gemstone is one of nature’s solutions for developing courage. You can find this vintage jewelry piece here at grandmas jewelry store.

Tigers Eye Gemstone

Buy on eBay

Tigers Eye Nuggets Gemstone Necklace Single or Double Wrap it. 34-inch Vintage necklace.

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Aquamarine Stone: Light Blue Sparkling Gemstone

Aquamarine-Gemstone

Aquamarine, a light blue gemstone, sparkles like the shimmering of the deep blue ocean sea in the summertime. Aquamarine stone is all about the ocean. It’s one of the treasures buried in the mermaid’s chest. Yes, some people believe mermaids really do exist!

Sailors wore it to ward off dangers from the ocean. Sharks and shipwrecks were avoided when carrying this precious gem. Seasickness is washed away when wearing Aquamarine stone.

The next time you travel by sea, slip an aquamarine ring on your finger, to manage through turbulent tides, or wear the gemstone in a necklace, around your neck, or just carry the stone in your pocket. The myth is that aquamarine works better than Dramamine to manage seasickness.

Birthstone and Anniversary

March is the month of change. Out with the lions and in with the lamb, and aquamarine is the birthstone for the month of March. It’s the gemstone to transform turbulent tides into still waters.

 It’s also the gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary.

The Color of Aquamarine Gemstones

The attraction of aquamarine lies in its crystal blue color. Naturally, it’s greenish-blue in color and adds a level of heat, and the stone turns a blueish color. This color is what makes aquamarine so popular in jewelry.

It’s a hard stone, which makes it very durable for daily wear. It is very common to see Aquamarine used as a center stone in cocktail rings. You can wear Aquamarine easily on a daily basis and not run the risk of chipping or breaking the stone. Not only is Aquamarine pretty, but it’s also durable.

Also read: Aquamarine Stone for Tranquility & Energy

Locations of Aquamarines Gemstones

Aquamarine was first discovered in Brazil. The next time you visit South America, you might discover some Aquamarine to take home, or you can visit a new or vintage jewelry store. That might be the easier way to find this beautiful gemstone.

Some of the largest gemstones of Aquamarine have been mined out of Russia. Aquamarine has been discovered in California. Of course, you can find some vintage pieces at Grandma’s Jewelry store, at bargain prices, because they have been preowned. You don’t have to fly all over the world to find it!

Is Aquamarine Valuable

Aquamarine is a valuable gemstone and it is expensive. As a rough estimate, you can expect to pay about 675.00 a carat for the Aquamarine gemstone, and finding a 2 to 3-carat Aquamarine gem can command 1500 to 2000.00. Finding vintage Aquamarine gemstones can save you quite a bit of money.

The Metaphysical

Tranquility and calming energy resonate from this gem. Aquamarine is about calm, peace, soothing the soul. When you seek relaxation and serenity, aquamarine is a great gemstone to wear.

Aquamarine Stone on eBay

You can buy this Aquamarine Stone on eBay

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How to Choose Rhinestone Jewelry You’ll Want to Wear Everyday

rhinestone jewelry 2

How to Choose Rhinestone Jewelry You’ll Want to Wear Everyday

Do you want to make your rhinestone jewelry shine bright like a diamond? Find out how to choose the best rhinestone pieces for your wardrobe here.

It’s no secret that women love jewelry. In our day and age, clothing is generally ergonomic—we don’t wear large robes and complicated like in the days of yore. Jewelry is one of the most extravagant ways that contemporary people can express their personalities. 

But what about rhinestone jewelry? 

Rhinestone jewelry—particularly in the style of costume jewelry—can be beautiful, but can also come out looking tacky if not worn right.  If you buy rhinestone jewelry that you’re not proud to wear every day, you could be wasting money.

Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place. This article will help you pick out the perfect accessory for you to wear for day-to-day use. 

Personal Style

The most important thing to consider when picking out a diamond is your personal style. There’s no point in buying jewelry if the jewelry is not “you.” Buying quality jewelry means buying something that doesn’t just end up a special occasion necklace. 

If you’re the type of person who likes to be big and brash and dress up every day, you can really go all-out. Rhinestones are a great way to look extravagant without breaking the bank. Combine many of our rhinestone products to create a truly commanding presence.

If you’re someone who prefers to dress simply, choose a more subtle rhinestone product. You can choose a necklace that you can tuck into your shirt or a like-new bracelet that remains slightly hidden by your sleeves. 

Simple dressers, however, also have the unique opportunity to wear statement jewelry. To do this, they’ll have to combine their normal simple style with a loud piece of jewelry. This contrast between the simple and the unique gives people looking at the outfit something to focus on and creates a truly fantastic contrast effect. 

If you’re someone who’s religious and like to show your devotion in your clothing, you can buy a bracelet with rhinestone crucifixes. This is a stylish but tasteful way of showing off your devotion to your church. 

You can also dress up more preppy, rebellious, and rock-and-roll styles with rhinestone earrings. No matter what direction you decide to go with your rhinestone shopping, always make sure it fits your personal style. 

Price

While rhinestones are generally on the less-expensive side, it’s still important to consider how much you’re spending. Consider how much you’re willing to spend on one article of jewelry and if you’d rather buy many less-expensive pieces. 

If you’re shopping for jewelry on a budget, you’re in luck. Our site offers many quality prices for jewelry for low prices. You’re guaranteed to find something that fits your personal style while staying within your budget. 

rhinestone jewelry

Comfort

Some people think that “beauty is pain” but we just don’t think that’s true. A piece of jewelry that isn’t too comfortable might be okay to wear every once in a while. But if you want a piece that you’re going to wear every day, you’re going to have to pick something that looks good and is comfortable to wear. 

Consider the weight of every product you think about buying. Wear a piece of jewelry that you own of that weight around for a day or borrow a piece from a friend. If this weight isn’t comfortable for you, do not buy that piece of jewelry. 

On top of that, understand the shape that the jewelry comes in. If the product has jagged edges, and you don’t like that feeling, you’re most likely not going to wear the jewelry very often. 

While you may fall in love with a piece of jewelry, buy it on impulse, and show it off for a couple of days, that excitement will eventually wear off. When it does, the comfort of the jewelry will determine whether or not you keep on wearing it.

Make sure you buy something comfortable so that you get the most bang for your buck. 

Quality

Rhinestones are cheap, but that doesn’t mean they have to be poorly made. Rhinestones are imitation gems, so it will help to figure out exactly what your rhinestone is made of. 

Think about the brightness of the rhinestone. One of the most beautiful aspects of rhinestones is that they flash like diamonds. A rhinestone made of lower-quality material won’t flash as much. 

You should also note how easy the steel on the back is to peel off. If it’s too easy to peel off, you have a piece of jewelry that isn’t very durable. 

In jewelry, it’s important to choose quality over quantity. A piece of jewelry may look nice, but that doesn’t mean much if you can only get a few uses out of it. Broken jewelry cannot be worn every day. 

Trends

While it’s far more important to follow your personal style, it can also help to not look like an old fogey.

A good dictum is “you have to know the rules in order to break them.” Stay up-to-date on current fashion trends so that you can comply with them when you want to, and rebel against them in other cases. Combining current trends with personal taste is one of the best ways to develop a keen sense of style.  

Rhinestone Jewelry 

There’s no use denying the fact that people love jewelry. Rhinestone jewelry is one of the cheapest ways to look fashionable. 

Make sure you consider your personal style, the price of the jewelry, the comfort of your pieces, the quality of the stones, and current trends before you buy, and you can do no wrong in the world of fashion. 

For more information, check out this article on classic jewelry designs. 

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Spotting the Difference Between Vintage Jewelry and Antique Jewelry

Difference Between Vintage Jewelry and Antique Jewelry

Spotting the Difference Between Vintage Jewelry and Antique Jewelry

Some people think that vintage jewelry and antique jewelry must be the same thing, but they actually have some key differences. Click here to find out more.

There are tons of reasons to buy used goods, rather than something that was newly manufactured. When it comes to the secondhand market, we tend to focus on clothing, as this makes up the majority of what people buy secondhand. 

As a result, it can be a little more difficult to find resources that delve into the ins and outs of purchasing pre-owned jewelry. How do you find a great jewelry seller? How much are these pieces truly worth?

Today, we’re going to talk about the difference between vintage jewelry and antique jewelry. Understanding this difference can help you find exactly what you’re looking for from an honest, reputable seller.

Read on to learn more about vintage jewelry and antique jewelry to unpack some of the key differences.

What Counts as Vintage Jewelry?

When we’re talking about the difference between vintage and antique, there is an easy rule of thumb to go by: time. The terms vintage and antique in the world of pre-owned items refer to how old the piece is. That means that something that starts out as contemporary eventually becomes vintage and, with time, antique.

Vintage jewelry must be at least 20 years old, and no more than 99 years old. That means that right now, in the year 2021, we would consider anything that was made between 1922 and 2001 to be vintage.

What Is Considered Antique Jewelry?

If you’re a sharp reader, you’ve probably guessed what we would consider antique jewelry, as opposed to vintage! Once something hits the 100-year mark, it is henceforth considered an antique piece of jewelry. Right now, that would mean that anything made in 1921 or earlier would be considered antique.

As you can imagine, this opens up the world of antiques to a broad range of items. This is why most of the time when you’re shopping for antique jewelry, you’ll see the seller include a specific time period or style with each antique piece. This helps buyers and collectors narrow down when, exactly, a piece was first produced.

(Common examples include Victorian jewelry from 1837-1901, Edwardian jewelry from 1901-1910, and so on.)

Estate Jewelry: The Third Term With a Vague Meaning

Let’s take a quick look at another term you may encounter in your jewelry-purchasing endeavors: estate jewelry. 

Seeing the term estate jewelry isn’t inherently a red flag, but it does mean that you may want to ask more questions. In order to be considered estate jewelry, a piece doesn’t have to be of a certain time period. It simply has to be pre-owned. In other words, something that was purchased in 2020 and resold in 2021 could correctly be given the title, “estate jewelry,” even if it isn’t worth the asking price.

Most experienced sellers understand the value of something that is antique versus vintage versus contemporary. If a piece is labeled estate jewelry with no other qualifiers attached, it could mean that the piece is contemporary–or that the seller genuinely doesn’t know what they have.

What to Look For When Shopping for Pre-Owned Jewelry

Now that you have an understanding of the difference between vintage and antique jewelry, you’re probably thinking, “That seems kind of vague!” The truth is that these two qualifiers can help you narrow down your search for the perfect piece, but there’s more that you’ll want to look for in each listing. Let’s take a look at some possible clues that can give you a better idea of what you’re buying.

Year Made and/or Provenance

It’s always nice when a buyer can get more specific about when a piece was manufactured. Of course, it’s not always possible to give you an exact date, but providing a general era is useful.

Serious collectors may also want to see the provenance of a piece of jewelry, but it’s not always available (or necessary). Provenance refers to the history of ownership of a piece.

Disclaimers That Jewelry Has Been Restored or Repurposed

It’s absolutely common for jewelry to have been restored (repaired and cleaned) or repurposed (altered for a new use or appearance). However, it can be helpful to know if that’s the case.

For example, you may encounter a piece of jewelry that was originally made over 100 years ago but altered in the past 99 years. That means that the elements used are antique, but the style may not match what you expect from an antique piece.

The Difference Between an Antique Piece and an Antique-Style Piece

One thing that you really want to look out for is pieces that are antique versus pieces that are antique-style. For example, if a seller says that they have Edwardian jewelry for sale, the implication is that the jewelry was made in the Edwardian period. However, if a seller refers to a piece as Edwardian-style, it entails that the piece is not from the Edwardian period, but rather created to resemble the style of that time.

Fashion is cyclical, which is often what drives the secondhand market. However, it can also contribute to fast fashion companies who are simply making cheap versions of vintage or antique pieces. If you’re looking for authentic jewelry, you’ll want to skip the knock-offs and look for bonafide vintage or antique jewelry.

Shop Vintage Jewelry With Grandmas Jewelry 123

At the end of the day, the difference between vintage jewelry and antique jewelry can be as small as one year or as vast as hundreds of years. This can have a major impact on style, materials used, durability, and overall worth. At Grandmas Jewelry 123, we guarantee that you’ll find true vintage and antique pieces that are priced fairly.

Head to our eBay store to see our ever-growing collection. We’re sure that you’ll find your next favorite piece of vintage or antique jewelry!

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Is Rhinestone Jewelry Worth Anything? Rhinestone Jewelry Value

Rhinestone Jewelry Value

It sparkles, it glitters, it’s glamorous and full of glitz, but is your rhinestone jewelry worth anything?  Maybe you inherited a rhinestone bracelet, necklace, or brooch from Grandma. Perhaps you were searching through your jewelry box and discovered a rhinestone pin you purchased long ago. How do you know whether or not Grandma’s Jewelry has any value?

 It should be as easy as 1, 2, 3, to know, but it’s not because all you know at this point is that the jewelry piece, shimmers, and glows.

Is It Rhinestone?

Swarovski from Austria introduced rhinestone jewelry in the late 1800s, and his crystals are still one of the most popular and sought-after crystals in today’s marketplace.

Sparkle and shine are not all the same, and if you want high-quality crystal, you want to remember the Swarovski name. Swarovski’s hand-cut the crystals. They weren’t mass-produced. They weren’t all the same. You can recognize Swarovski crystals by the swan logo, on the backside of bracelets and brooches. Same as the following picture.

Gold Vintage Swarovski Brooch with Sparkle Crystals Jumbo Show Stopper Estate

vintage rhinestone jewelry value

By the time the 1900s arrived, crystals were machine cut, but Swarovski kept its high-quality manufacturing style, even though the crystals moved from hand-cut to machine-cut works of art.

Initially, crystals were all clear in color but as machinery changed the jewelry manufacturing field, the crystals became a juxtaposition of colors. Dazzling jewels and sparkling colors lined the marketplace. 

What should you look for in evaluating Rhinestone Jewelry value?

Look at the bubbles or cracks in a rhinestone piece. You want to find sparkling clear crystals, that glitter in the sunshine. You don’t want bubbles and you don’t want cracks. Smooth clear rhinestones are best.

Look at the prongs

Crystals and rhinestones set in prongs should be evenly spaced. Are bends in the prongs? The facets in rhinestones should be perfect points, with even spaces, and, unique shapes.

Look at the name

Some designers are known for high-quality rhinestone jewelry because extraordinary care was taken in crafting designs. Names like Eisenberg, Coro, Boucher, Hobe, are some of the highest quality rhinestone jewelry manufacturers you can find.

Look at the time period

Art Deco designs are very popular today. These were costume jewelry designs, where the Rhinestones were cut into geometric shapes. 

Art Deco was very popular in the 1920s. It’s really the time period when rhinestone jewelry had a huge boom in the marketplace.

Shimmering colors, floral motifs, geometric lines, and abstract designs popularized the art deco times.

Check out the Internet 

Some rhinestone jewelry value can be less than 25.00, but many of the high-quality names will cost significantly more money. Look at what has been sold on eBay, Etsy to get an idea of what your rhinestone jewelry piece will sell for.

Browse great range of Rhinestone Jewelry on eBay

Consult Price Guides

Jeanene Bell has written an excellent book on pricing old jewelry, called Old Jewelry.

 I highly recommend this book. Beware that printed price guides can be out of date before they hit the marketplace, but they do provide a guide to evaluating rhinestone jewelry prices.

Bottomline

Rhinestone jewelry prices vary depending upon the name of the designer, the quality of the rhinestones, and the time period when they were produced. You can be sure that if the rhinestones sparkle and shine, they have market value, but the amount of value depends upon quality, name, and time.

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Vintage Classic Jewelry Designs

Vintage classic jewelry

Vintage Classic Jewelry Designs

There are vintage classic jewelry styles and designs that have lasted through the test of time. Your Grandmother wore them, your Mother wore them, and You wore them too. They are the designs you pull out as your fashion accessories and wear them everywhere.

Many women reach into their closets and look for the same outfit, time after time. Whether it’s a classic pair of blue jeans, a simple black dress, they are your go-to clothes. 

You accessorize the same way; they are your basics. You have your go-to bracelets, rings, necklaces, earrings. They match most of your clothes. They won’t go out of style. They may be yesterday’s designs, but you wear them today. They are your classic jewelry pieces. They are special classics, because they are your special classic jewelry designs, not because they are unique or different. 

What are classic jewelry designs that match every outfit? 

What are the basics that every women needs?

Diamonds or Cubic Zirconia Earrings.

Nobody will ever know if the diamonds you wear are real genuine diamond stones or cubic zirconia. Nobody will know if they are vintage classics or brand new.

Don’t expect a jeweler to reach for the loupe, and check out your ears! Nor will your friends.

If you can’t afford diamonds, cubic zirconia sparkles just the same. And they look the same. The only one who will know that they aren’t real will be you.

“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend”. Marilyn Monroe popularized that line, and that was back in the 1950s, and nothing has changed. Diamonds are still a girl’s best friend. That’s why they are offered as diamond wedding rings. They last over time. They are a classic jewelry design.

Diamonds can be worn anywhere. You can wear them on a job interview. You can wear them on a date. You can wear them with your husband. Diamond earrings can be worn at any time. They match the simple blue jeans. They can be worn with the formal long evening gown. Whether you need a fashion accessory for the casual, formal, or someplace in between, outfit, diamonds offer a classic jewelry design, that can be worn anytime, and with any outfit, day or night.

Also explore a wide range of vintage jewelry here on this website.

Diamonds are a piece of basic classic jewelry. Every girl needs a pair. They don’t have to be expensive or even new. Vintage classic diamond jewelry works the same.

Pearl Necklace

Former first lady, Barbara Bush wore her strand of pearls with nearly every outfit she owned. They were classic jewelry necklaces. A strand of pearls might be freshwater, or cultured pearls. They might be copies or even real. Doesn’t really matter. Pearls may have a touch of color, as if from the South pacific sea, or a basic cream color recognized by you or me. Pearls are classic and worn as a necklace, they will match every outfit in your closet. The pearl necklace is a classic piece of jewelry that can be worn anytime. Every woman needs a strand of pearls.

pearl necklace vintage classic jewelry

Bangle Bracelets

Bangles are a classic jewelry design that has stood the test of time. From the flappers of the 1920s who decorated their arms with these classics to the modern women of today, bangles are a “must-have” jewelry design. They can be worn for day or evening wear. They can be worn in the summer, winter, spring, and fall. Bangles are a fashion accessory classic.

bangle bracelets vintage classic jewelry

Long Beaded Necklaces

Every woman needs a long beaded necklace as a basic wardrobe accessory. They can be worn as a long single strand, or double wrapped. They can be layered with more strands of necklace, or worn as just one. They are a classic jewelry design, that stands the test of time. Whether you are seeking colored beads or black and white, start with the first long strand of beads.

Look through your closet at clothes you commonly wear and choose a color that fits most. You can always add other necklace strands to dress it up or down, but start with the long beaded strand to wear around town.

Vintage Silver Toned Necklace with Large Silver Medallion Vintage Jewelry

Rings

You spend time polishing your fingernails, manicuring them to look the best. Rings are a basic necessity to be worn in any fashion. They are a great and classic jewelry accessory. Rings with single gemstones are basic classic accessories.

Every wardrobe needs these basic accessories for dressing up day or evening wear. Whether you are looking for vintage jewelry from the past, or for modern times, these classic bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings, stand as classics that will withstand the test of time.

vintage classic ring

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You can shop vintage classic jewelry from our eBay Store.

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How do I know How much my Costume Rhinestone Jewelry is Worth

Rhinestone jewelry

Every person selling or buying vintage jewelry begins as a newcomer. Sometimes we are drawn to vintage jewelry because we inherit some, and we want to know the value.

I was once a newcomer. I inherited some jewelry when my mother passed away, that had been her mother’s, my grandmother’s. 

I didn’t know if it was real, or vintage. I didn’t know if it was a gold or gold plate. I didn’t know if it was rhinestone or real jewels. I didn’t know if it was antique jewelry. When I look back, I knew very little about vintage jewelry. I wanted to know how much this bracelet was worth.

How do you find out what Vintage Jewelry is worth?

I researched and investigated. This is my story in investigating a vintage bracelet that I inherited that was Grandma’s bracelet. I share it with you so that you can see the process I went through in the investigation.

 Evaluating Grandma’s vintage Jewelry should have been as easy to research as 1,2,3. 

It wasn’t. It took time. It took education. It took investigation.

Evaluating Costume Rhinestone Jewelry takes time

The bracelet was pretty. It had beautiful rhinestones, patterned in a floral design. They were reds and blues, and the bracelet looked well made. The rhinestones sparkled.  The gold had real shine. Maybe this wasn’t rhinestone, costume jewelry. Maybe I owned a bracelet, with real ruby gemstones, and real gold. 

If it was real, it would be worth a fortune. It was a heavy, wide-band gold bracelet, with red and blue stones. Were they gemstones? Were they rhinestones? I had no idea.

My mind raced. If I cashed in this bracelet, I would fly to Paris and spend these inherited funds. Gold was over a thousand dollars an ounce. This bracelet had to weigh over an ounce, maybe it weighed two ounces. I didn’t have a scale. I was counting the dollars. Maybe it was worth 1000.00, maybe 2000, or even more. I was boarding an airplane, ready to fly.

I imagined I was sitting in Paris, France at an outdoor cafe. Grandma’s Jewelry was funding the trip.  Mentally, I had spent the money before I knew what I had.

Begin with Experts

I rushed to a jewelry store in the shopping mall. I needed a trained eye. Jewelry store personnel attend training to teach them how to recognize real stones versus rhinestones. Most of the time they are trained in studying diamonds, but they do learn about other stones.

Did I have rhinestones or was I looking at ruby? It took less than 10 seconds to tell me I had red rhinestone jewelry.

My trip to Paris, was beginning to disappear, before it even began.

Generally speaking, the people working in jewelry stores know about new jewelry. They aren’t trained in vintage, jewelry pieces.

At the time I believed that rhinestone jewelry had little value outside of personal appeal.

That wasn’t true.

How much is Costume Rhinestone Jewelry worth?

Vintage Costume Rhinestone jewelry can command a pretty penny. Some of it costs more than jewelry made with real gemstones and real gold.

The front side had huge appeal. It was a beautiful rhinestone bracelet. It sparkled and shined

I studied the back of the bracelet. That is where you find the facts. There were no markings for silver, no markings for gold. It didn’t say 18k, 22k,14k,10k, the markings for gold used in the United States. It didn’t say GF, the marking for gold fill. It didn’t say anything about gold

That doesn’t mean it’s not gold, just because you don’t see markings. Most of the time gold is marked with markings indicating its gold, but not always. It’s not difficult to find 10k unmarked gold.

The gold on this bracelet was shiny. That’s a clue that the gold is plated and not real gold. If the gold is shiny, and it doesn’t have markings, you are looking at gold-plated costume jewelry.

My trip to Paris, was looking like it might disappear.

Tools to Evaluate Rhinestone Jewelry

I pulled the magnet out of my pocket. And it stuck right to the gold bracelet. That means that it wasn’t real gold. If the magnet attracts the bracelet, it’s not real gold, It’s a gold plate. The artist used metal to craft the bracelet and finished it with a gold plate.

Gold plate is common in costume jewelry. But don’t think for a minute that just because the piece is a gold plate, it has no value, it just might.

I was looking at rhinestone, red rhinestones set on a gold plate. I had rhinestone costume jewelry. It didn’t have real gemstones. It didn’t have real gold. Was it new, or was it old?

I took the loupe out of my pocket and examined the name. It was signed, with the word Coro. Who was Coro? 

What was the history of this Rhinestone Costume Jewelry Piece

I began thinking about the person who owned the bracelet to give me a clue about the jewelry history.

Grandma had been born in Sweden, raised in Canada, and lived most of her adult life in Massachusetts, until retiring to Florida. 

Maybe Coro was an artist. Maybe Coro was a jewelry manufacturer. Maybe Coro was a friend of Grandmas or a relative in the family that the bracelet had been made for? Maybe Grandma had a secret boyfriend named Coro, and he had given her the bracelet.

Maybe Coro was a person in Russia and this had been Grandma’s mother’s bracelet. I didn’t know. This vintage rhinestone bracelet looked pretty, but it was rhinestone costume jewelry, it wasn’t gold. It wasn’t ruby. Was it old? And who was Coro?

Coro and Rhinestone Costume Jewelry 

I did some research on the internet. Coro was a costume jewelry manufacturer in New York, that later moved to Providence, Rhode Island. Coro produced high-end, high-quality, rhinestone costume jewelry designs, between the years 1901, and 1979. They produced rhinestone costume jewelry, that the commoner could afford.

Coro used the names, Coro, Coro Craft, and Vendome. This told me that the rhinestone costume bracelet I had,  had been made before 1980. I figured that anyway because Grandma passed away in the middle of the 1980s, so I knew this vintage, costume rhinestone bracelet, had to be older than 1985.

Figuring out age, took some thinking skills, coupled with research.

Review trademarks on Rhinestone Costume Jewelry

I looked at the trademark. The name said Coro in script font.  A winged horse was by the name. It said craft in print by the name.  It didn’t say Corocraft, as if it was one word and it wasn’t the words Vendome, which was the name used by Coro to produce a high-end costume jewelry line.

This told me it was an older piece of jewelry made by Coro, but I still didn’t know how old. How would I find out?

What is the age of the Rhinestone Costume Jewelry 

I researched the evolution of the names Coro used, and that would tell me the age of the rhinestone costume bracelet, I had inherited, that had been Grandma’s Jewelry.

Coro used artisans, and crafted quality rhinestones into jewelry pieces and made them affordable for people who wanted to wear jewelry that looked like gold, but didn’t want or couldn’t afford the high price of gold. They sold high-end costume rhinestone Jewelry designs. It was a little like their sales were geared towards the middle class, who wanted a piece of jewelry for a special occasion.

How old was my costume rhinestone bracelet made with gold plate signed by Coro? Was it an antique? 

What is the signature of the Rhinestone Costume Jewelry

I looked at the signature style. Coro changed trademarks and styles of signing jewelry over the years. That often gives you a clue.

Coro began using the name Coro as a trademark in 1943 in trademarking jewelry designs. That told me that the bracelet was produced between 1943, and 1979 when Coro closed its doors.

This rhinestone costume bracelet had a script style of letters with a picture of a winged, pegasus horse by the name. This was a style used by Coro in the year 1945. 

I could make a pretty good guess that this bracelet was produced shortly after the war ended, probably in 1945.

I had looked at the rhinestones. I had evaluated the gold. The age didn’t really matter. The greatest value in this bracelet was its name and the winged horse beside its name.

Rhinestone Jewelry has Unique Value. Find it.

Every piece of old, costume rhinestone jewelry, will have a unique feature. Sometimes it’s the metal or stones, other times, it’s the age, and or the craftsmanship. In this bracelet, the value was the name and scripting of the name. and the winged horse beside the name.

At the end of the day, you will need to investigate the uniqueness of each piece, but what matters most is the demand.

Rhinestone Costume Jewelry has Market Demand

Coro Jewelry is in demand. You can find many vintage pieces selling online. The winged horse beside the name made this a very collectible bracelet. The winged horse wasn’t used very long as a signature style. 

Research Price Guides

I went to the library and researched price guides for Coro Jewelry designs. I went to book stores for more research.

It turns out the winged horse next to the name, made this bracelet in high demand. And here I thought it was the gold and rhinestones. It turned out it was the name and the image by the name.

Old Jewelry by Jeanenne Bell, G.G is a very good guide. This author has written several books on old jewelry and is an excellent resource.

Review Company Catalogues

Old catalogs can tell you a lot about the time period and the original cost of the jewelry you are looking for cost. It doesn’t tell you today’s value.

Coro
vintage-jewelry-online-rings
vintage-jewelry-online-necklaces
vintage-jewelry-online-earrings

How much was my Rhinestone Costume bracelet worth – Conclusion

I couldn’t find an exact picture of my bracelet, but I did find comparable pieces. They were priced between $300.00, and $500.00

Take these prices guides with a grain of salt They are guides. Prices change with market demand. They can be higher or lower. They should be viewed as guides. At the end of the day, it depends upon what a buyer is willing to pay.

Grandma passed over 30 years ago, and I decided to keep her beautiful rhinestone bracelet. I packed it up and placed it in Grandma’s Jewelry box. I took it out and wore it on special occasions. It was priceless to me. It wasn’t for sale. It had been Grandma’s Jewelry, passed on to me.

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How to Clean Vintage and Antique Jewelry

How to Clean Vintage and Antique Jewelry

Detailed article on “How to Clean Vintage and Antique Jewelry”.

Cleaning Sterling Silver Vintage Jewelry

There are some clever tricks you can use to clean sterling silver, that are quite effective. Grandma might have removed the polish, and applied old-fashioned elbow grease, to make vintage jewelry shine. Today, there are easier and faster ways, using less effort and time. They are as simple as 1,2,3.

I call it Grandma’s Jewelry 1,2,3 plan. Three simple steps to bring back the sparkle in vintage sterling silver jewelry. You can clean grandma’s jewelry in no time. You are going to spend most of the time soaking those vintage jewelry, necklaces, rings, bracelets, and brooches, using ordinary household items, you already have at home.

You can clean vintage jewelry, while talking on the phone. It’s that easy. Grandma couldn’t do that!

First, let Grandma know that she is old, and she cleaned jewelry the hard way, back in olden times, and she needs to listen to the modern way to make vintage silver, glisten, and shine.

Step 1.

Line a bowl with Aluminum foil, shiny side up. Vintage Silver tarnishes because silver contains sulfur, and sulfur turns black. The aluminum foil creates a reaction and helps pull the tarnish out. 

Step 2.

Add a couple tablespoons of baking soda, two tablespoons, of salt, a little dish washing liquid, and add  warm water.

Step 3.

Add vintage sterling silver bracelets, necklaces, and rings,  and soak for 15 minutes. Rinse the jewelry with cold water, and use a soft towel to dry.

Cleaning Grandmas Jewelry is as easy as 1,2,3. And that is all you need to do, to make your vintage sterling silver jewelry shine.

Ok, there is one more thing… If you want scientific expertise, to tell you why that method works, call Dr. Fauci, while waiting for those vintage silver jewelry pieces to soak and ask why aluminum foil, baking soda, and salt work when cleaning vintage jewelry. He is the expert and the Mr. Go To Clean guy .

Then let me know what he says.

If your vintage sterling silver jewelry is extra black with tarnish, repeat this process one more time. Use a new piece of aluminum foil. You will get shine!

Silver and silverplate jewelry clean the same way. Costume jewelry works the same way cleaning Gold Vintage Jewelry.

Beautiful 14K Yellow Gold London Blue Topaz Pierced Earrings Estate Sale

How to clean vintage and antique jewelry

You might have inherited an old piece of Gold jewelry from Grandma, that needs to be cleaned. Vintage gold jewelry is delicate and precious. It’s an expensive metal to buy. You want to handle with care, when cleaning vintage gold jewelry.

Don’t use this method when cleaning vintage, gold jewelry with gemstones. It’s not that it doesn’t clean them, its that the stones may loosen while cleaning, and you risk loosing them. 

There are some gemstones that you don’t want to use dish washing soap to clean, so while most can be cleaned with ordinary household items, some cannot. Just apply this technique cleaning gold vintage jewelry without gemstones.

Cleaning 18K and 22K Gold  Vintage Jewelry

When cleaning 18K, or 22K Gold, use a mild dishwashing soap, and warm water. Don’t make the water so hot that you can’t handle the jewelry piece. You don’t want to drop and damage it, 18K and 22k gold is soft, and needs delicate hands, to remove dirt and grime. 

Add a couple drops of dishwashing soap first into a bowl, before adding water. Don’t do it the other way around. You want the dish washing soap to spread evenly.

Don’t put the jewelry into the sink without a covered drain. You don’t want to risk losing it, because the water was too hot for you to handle. Don’t let your gold, wedding ring slip down the drain! I know that there are days, but really don’t risk that. Use a bowl.

Apply a soft bristle toothbrush, to remove particles stuck in between links. You don’t want to scratch gold, while cleaning. Gold is soft. You can get creative and use an eyebrow brush to reach into crevices, so the vintage jewelry you are cleaning doesn’t scratch.

Jewelry stores sell soft bristle brushes, specifically made for cleaning jewelry.You may want to purchase one of them.

After, rinse with water. Then, dry the gold with a soft cloth, and rub it dry. Dry with a soft cloth, rather than a towel, so that you don’t get shreds of material from the towel into the vintage jewelry.

Cleaning 14K and 10K Gold Antique Jewelry

14k and 10k gold jewelry is not as soft as 18k and 22k gold. You are going to clean that vintage 14k gold bracelet, by making a paste. Take one quarter cup of baking soda, and some warm water.  Mix them together. Not too thick and not to thin, and as Goldilocks said, the “porridge needs to be just right”

Then using a soft bristle brush, either toothbrush, or eyebrow brush, spread the paste over the vintage gold, and remove particles of grease and grime.

Rinse off with white cooking vinegar, and then rinse away the vinegar, with tap water. Rub dry with a soft cloth, and ooh la la, watch your antique gold jewelry sparkle and shine.

Visit our one-of-its-kind Vintage Jewelry Store.

Cleaning Antique Pearl jewelry

Pearls are delicate. Each pearl has a layer of  “nacre”, that gives it, its luster. Pearls can be easily damaged if not cleaned or stored properly. Take extra care when caring for pearl jewelry.

Each time you wear that vintage, pearl necklace, you want to wipe it down after wear. This will remove any oils, perfumes, lotions that you might have worn with the pearls. You don’t want to wear pearls in sunshine. Don’t lay on the beach, soaking up the hot sun, wearing your pearl necklace.  

Barbara Bush was famous for wearing her vintage pearl necklace. I bet she knew better than to sun up at Kennebunkport wearing that necklace!

The sun will damage the “nacre” Don’t take a shower wearing pearls. They are too delicate for that.

You don’t want to soak vintage pearls in water to clean them. You want to use a damp cloth and wipe each pearl. If they have yellowed and need extra boost of cleaning, use a damp cloth with soap and water and wipe.Don’t soak vintage pearls!

Apply,  the wipe and swipe method when cleaning vintage pearl jewelry.

Do not steam clean pearls. Do not soak them in water. Wipe and swipe. Easy does it.

How to Clean Vintage and Antique Jewelry

Cleaning Vintage Gemstone and Vintage Rhinestone Jewelry

Many antique gemstones, and vintage rhinestones can be cleaned with soap and water, but some cannot. The first step in identifying what can be cleaned using soap and water is properly identifying the gemstone.

If you are unsure of the gemstone, take it to a gemologist, for evaluation, before attempting to clean it. You do not want to take the chance, that you might destroy it using improper cleaning methods or techniques.

According to the Gemology Institute of America, (GIA) some gemstones have different properties. This means they can react differently to chemicals, acids, heat, and light, and scratching. 

Although most gemstones can be cleaned with a mild dishwashing detergent and water, some cannot.

Properly Identify the Vintage Jewelry Gemstones

The gemstones with the greatest hardness on the Mohs scale are diamonds, rubies and emeralds, with diamonds being the hardest stones of them all. 

All this really means is that these are the gemstones with the greatest resistance to scratching. This is one reason diamonds are a great stone to wear every day.

These precious gemstones can be cleaned using a mild detergent and soap and water. 

Diamonds have inclusions, and dirt and grime can get into the cracks in the stone. A toothpick can help remove some of the grime from the inclusions. Be patient, when using a toothpick too clean in between prongs. You don’t want to damage the prongs, resulting in losing stones.

Some Jewelers have used oils to clean emeralds, to remove grease and grime, but this can add harm to the emerald, according to the Gemological Institute of America.

After you have cleaned diamonds and rubies, blow them dry to remove excess water. One tip that jewelers often use is to place the jewels in a bed of dry maple wood chips to dry. This can help you get rid of excess water spots, without leaving a film, on the gemstone.

Any gemstone that you clean at home, needs a soft bristle for cleaning. You don’t want to scratch antique gemstones or any gemstone.

Bottomline

Cleaning antique and vintage jewelry, that Grandma left behind is as easy as 1,2,3. You have all of the products that you need in the kitchen. Just take care with each precious vintage piece, as you restore those old antique jewelry treasures back to life. Give those old classic jewels some brilliance, and they will glimmer evermore.

Tammy Pinkerton

Based in the United States, grandmasjewelry123 has been an eBay member since Sep 30, 1997

Tammy Pinkerton
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How To Buy Vintage Jewelry Online in 2021

HOW TO BUY VINTAGE JEWELRY ONLINE

Why I buy Vintage Jewelry?

When I first began shopping for vintage jewelry, I was looking for the unique, the different, the one-of-a-kind bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches. I was searching for jewelry, impossible to find in retail stores. I wanted the memories of old lovers, and new ones too, the memories of parents and grandparents, and special people who had been linked into the tapestry of my life.

Shopping for vintage jewelry is fun. The reason it’s enjoyable is that it’s one of a kind. It’s not the costume jewelry bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches made in China, and sold in Walmart stores.

Costume Jewelry isn’t real sterling silver or 14k gold, and it might not have genuine gemstones, but vintage jewelry is a selection from the past. Purchasing it is a little like stepping into the movie Back to the Future. You rev up the time machine, turn on the flux capacitor, and fly towards relics from the past, then return to today, bringing fashion designs from yesterday, into today.

Sometimes I  purchased vintage jewelry to accessorize, the simple summer dress. Other times, it was the choice, for the dinner, anniversary, or special occasion. Sometimes I bought, a special jewel for the GrandmasJewelry123 store to resell to another.

Why do you want Vintage Jewelry?

If you are like me, you are buying vintage jewelry for the same reasons. You might choose a ring or bracelet, that reminds you of somebody special. You may need a fashion accessory, a beaded necklace, for a special outfit for day or evening wear. You might be searching for a simple sterling silver design, that you can wear many times. You might just be seeking a design to capture a slice of time.

You know that mass produced jewelry doesn’t encapsulate the differentness of one of a kind pieces crafted before.

You are looking for vintage bracelets, costume rings, vintage necklaces, and antique brooches that speak to the heart, that are fun to wear, and that aren’t in stores that sell new jewelry everywhere. 

You are looking for vintage bracelets, costume rings, vintage necklaces, and antique brooches that speak to the heart, that are fun to wear, and that aren’t in stores that sell new jewelry everywhere.

You are looking to wear special pieces from the past. They will show some.

Mostly the selections evoke curiosity. Who owned this? How did they get this? What is the story of this jewelry piece? The odds are you might never know, but exceptional jewelry makes you wander off into Lala land and think about who wore this before?

They don’t make vintage jewelry like this anymore. It’s not made in China. It’s no t mass produced. The vintage jewelry that you are looking for, is one of a kind, it’s a special piece that touches you, and evokes curiosity, about its history.

Is Vintage Jewelry a Good Investment?

Vintage jewelry is an excellent investment. Before our marketplace became a collection of made in China specials, artists crafted jewelry by hand. Many companies spent time and money, using rhinestones, and gold plate and silver plate, to make jewelry affordable for people who wanted to wear elegance, but couldn’t afford the expensive cost.

Find a pair of Miriam Haskell Earrings, and you have a real collectible piece. Famous for the large chunky stones, artistically designed, her pieces are quickly increasing in value, not to mention very difficult to find.

Nolan Miller, costume designer for the television show Dynasty, passed in 2012. His jewelry considered works of art and has been on the upswing.

Sara Coventry jewelry was once a household name, along with Avon Jewelry designs. Both are still relatively affordable, but a great speculative buy destined to increase in price. Avon, developed an amazing brand, and not only sold fantastic costume jewelry, Avon was a huge supporter of economic empowerment for women in the marketplace.

No matter what you think the value might be in the future, don’t buy jewelry just for the increase in price. Buy vintage jewelry that you like. You don’t want to invest money in a bracelet, only to have it packed away in a box.

Antique Vs. Vintage Jewelry

Any jewelry that is 20 years old or more is considered vintage jewelry. If it’s 100 years old, its considered antique. This means the Art Deco designs worn by the flappers of the 1920’s, are antique relics. The Jewelry worn in the past wasn’t always expensive, some of it affordable costume designs. They are becoming very difficult to find, and increasing in price.

They may or may not have real gemstones. It may or may not be sterling silver or 14k gold. 

Vintage Jewelry is a Good Investment

Buy what you like. Buy what you will wear. Don’t purchase jewelry you will shuffle away in a box, hoping someday it’s worth more.

You can find vintage Jewelry on Etsy, Ebay, Craigs List, or even here at www.grandmasjewelry123.com store.

You can also find vintage jewelry at jewelry trade shows, and at auction houses. 

And of course you can find it at estate sales. This is my favorite place to find old pieces, because these are pieces that people didn’t want to part with when they were alive, and then the heirs don’t care or know anything about it, and are willing to let it go.

I love finding pieces where women who died, only had sons. The guys often don’t have a clue, and they aren’t attached to it. You can find some great buys. They are willing to let it all go.

What should you look for?

Patina

Look at the patina. Vintage jewelry will have some signs of wear. There are many copies and places putting out new jewelry pieces that are new, designed to look like they are old. Vintage jewelry will have signs of wear. Some of the pieces may have slight tarnish, some signs that there was some wear.

Reputation

Search for reputable dealers of vintage jewelry. If the dealer is selling multiple pieces of the same item, it’s doubtful that it is old. It is more likely new, designed to look as if it’s old. You want the one of a kind piece of jewelry, that nobody else is wearing.

Clasp

Review the clasp of the jewelry, as it can tell you quite a bit about the actual age. If you find a special vintage brooch that you like, always look at the back of it, as well as the front. 

Brooches with pins that extend past the edge of the brooch, are probably antique brooches. The reason for this is that women’s fabric was heavier 100 years ago, and the pin extended past the edge of the brooch so it could securely attach to the fabric. 

A Long pin extending past the edge of the brooch is an antique brooch.

Helpful Tools To Bring With You

Loupe

Invest in a jewelers loupe when investing in vintage or antique jewelry. This will allow you to see writing on the back of the bracelet or necklace. Any markings such as signatures, stamps of sterling or 925, or 14k gold are easier to see with a jewelers loupe.

A Magnet

While Silver is usually marked 925, or sterling, gold is not always marked with 14k gold, or 10k gold. You don’t have the ability to do an acid test on the spot, but you can bring a magnet with you. A magnet won’t attract silver or gold. It’s a first step to telling you if you are looking at silver or gold.

What Should you look for?

Signatures

Look at the signatures on the back of the vintage bracelet, brooch or necklace. It’s an excellent way to date jewelry. 

Goldette Jewelry located in New York, made fine vintage jewelry from the 1940’s to the 1980s, when it closed its doors. 

Goldette had signatures, and signature styles that changed with the decades. These signatures can help you date a piece of jewelry. You might not ever know the exact year it was produced without the catalogue but you can get an approximate age of the piece.

Hobe jewelry was produced in Providence Rhode Island. Hobe used rhinestones carefully cut and placed that are so finely made, that they practically jump off the jewelry brooch. Hobe had styles of stamping their trademark on the back of a brooch or pair of earrings that varied with the decade it was produced.

Markings for silver and gold

Always look at the backside of the jewelry piece. Silver is usually marked. Sometimes you can find an individual who crafted with sterling silver and didn’t mark it, but the hallmarks have been required by law for hundreds of years. 

The silver markings can tell you the country where it was made, as countries often used hallmarks specific to that country. England stamped silver with a lion.

In the United States, silver is marked with 925 or the word sterling. If the piece says sterling, instead of 925, it’s an older piece of vintage jewelry.

 Countries use different numbers for marking silver. Check out the silver markings to learn more about markings. There are places online that will help you learn the silver markings found in various countries in the world.

Vintage jewelry is an excellent investment, and it’s a lot of fun to purchase. Whether you are seeking to capture a piece of time from the past or wear it for a special event, you can find a complete selection of vintage earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings at www.grandmasjewelry123.com

The following list will guide you on how to buy Vintage Jewelry

  1. 1. Examine the jewelry from all sides, thoroughly.
  2. 2. Vintage jewelry must look old. Confirm it.
  3. 3. Evaluate on the base of price. If something is very cheap it is for some reason. Compare and contrast the products & prices of multiple stores.
    Checkout: Vintage Jewelry Store
  4. 4. Read out about vintage jewelry before you go to purchase it. This is a good article on this topic.
Tammy Pinkerton

Based in the United States, Tammy Pinkerton has been an eBay seller since Sep 30, 1997.

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Grandmas Jewelry: Best Store for Vintage Jewelry

Grandmas Best Store for Vintage Jewelry

Stroll on over to our eBay store at Grandmas Jewelry 123 or just click above, and see our collection of unique and interesting pieces of jewelry. You will find many antique pieces from the Edwardian Era. Some are museum quality, such as this double strand pearl necklace with genuine peridot gemstones.

We have a antique black onyx carved, Indian, cameo brooch made before 1900. It’s unusual and rare.

We aren’t limited to just luxury at an affordable price, we also have many costume designers signed earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

If I list down, at Grandma’s Jewelry Store you can buy:

Miriam Haskell, a renowned designer graces our store with a classic Haskell-designed chunky, clunky, pair of clip-on earrings from the 1950s. Haskell jewelry is very in demand, and I only have one set of earrings from her. They are typical Haskell with large amethyst-looking gemstones.

Goldette closed shop in the 1970’s, but I have found a pewter Aladdin lamp necklace from the 1950’s.

What would a vintage jewelry store be without diamonds, 14k gold, or sterling silver? When you want to be the center of the universe, or make somebody else the center of the universe, you want sparkle and light.

grandmas jewelry on eBay
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Hobe Jewelry: Jewels of Legendary Splendor

It was the father Jaques Hobe’, a master Goldsmith, and Silversmith, who founded the Hobe company in 1887, in France, but it was the son William who put the Hobe’ company on the map and transformed Hobe’ into a recognized name, that people still view as a high-quality Jewelry maker, even today.

Hobe Jewelry History

It took 40 years between 1887 and 1927 to change the direction of the company, where costume jewelry collectors think of those tasseled and beaded necklaces, and those sparkling floral, rhinestone pins, as a symbol of the finest costume jewelry, to reach the marketplace.

It is rumored that Hobe’s Jewelry was so exquisite, and recognizable that the term “Costume Jewelry” originated from the Hobe company. The tagline for Hobe’s Jewelry was Jewels of Legendary Splendor.

Hobe’s Jewelry Reaches Broadway

Hobe’ reached the stars, literally and figuratively. In the 1920s, Hobe’ was commissioned to create jewelry pieces for Flo Zeigfield for theatre work on Broadway. Soon, many theatre and movie productions commissioned Hobe to produce more Hobe pieces, for the stars.

Many of the Broadway stars of the 1920s embellished their on-stage fashion with custom-designed pieces of Hobe Jewelry. Hobe became known as the originator of high-end costume jewelry. Gemstones that sparkled and dazzled with glitz became trademarks for Hobe designs.

The Hollywood stars of the 1940’s and 1950s glamoured fashion with Hobe pins and brooches. Betty Davis and Ava Gardner were two of the most famous stars of the post-war era to wear Hobe’s Jewelry. Marilyn Monroe was known to own several dazzling, Hobe Jewelry pieces in the 1950s. 

Hobe’ High End Quality Designs

Hobe’s Jewelry was sold to high-end retail stores. Sometimes the artistic quality was crafted from glass that looked like rhinestones, and other times he used semi-precious gemstones and integrated them with glass. Often the jewelry pieces were encased in silver, and sometimes sterling silver. And always, Hobe’s jewelry featured the trademarked Hobe’s name.

In the 1940’s many of the Hobe designs were patented, and many of these designs originated from William Hobe’ or his wife Sylvia. Many were considered expensive for the time and sold to boutiques featuring expensive jewelry.

While Hobe first crafted costume jewelry in Germany, and France, when he immigrated to the United States, Providence Rhode Island became home. Museums exist there today, exhibiting the works of William Hobe’, his wife Sylvia, and his father Jaques.

As the decades passed, the Hobe family continued designing and making jewelry. After the 1950s the designs became broader in style and appealed to the masses. Williams, late son Don moved to Florida and established operations there.

hobe jewelry

Bottomline

Today, Hobe’s Jewelry is highly collectible. Amazing brooches and earrings with finely cut glass stones are very much in demand as vintage jewelry designs. Hobe created many pieces with an Asian theme in design in the 1940s. After the 1940s Hobe designed more jewelry for the masses, and the most collectible pieces are prior to the 1950s, although Hobe is a symbol of the finest costume jewelry in the world, and all of it is increasing rapidly in value.

If you are a collector of vintage jewelry, this is one designer name, you want to find:

Vintage Jewelry

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Aquamarine Gemstone: Stone for Tranquility & Energy

Aquamarine Gemstone Vintage Jewelry Store

You can buy Aquamarine Gemstone ring by clicking on the following link:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Aquamarine-Gemstone-Ring-Vintage-Estate-Sale-Sparkle-Tested-Birthstone-for-March/323695142705?hash=item4b5dbbe731:g:X8EAAOSwS15fynlt

Aquamarine Stone is a light blue gemstone, that sparks like it’s shimmering from the ocean sea in the summertime. This beautiful gemstone is the birthstone for the month of March. Aquamarine is also the gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary.

Aquamarine GemStone Benefits

When you want tranquility and need calming energy, Aquamarine is the gemstone for you. It has a long history as a soothing stone. Rumor has it that ancient sailors carried aquamarine stones with them to ward off dangers from the sea. When turbulent waters hammer against a ship, grasping onto an aquamarine stone offers comfort.

This stone is about calm, peace, soothing the soul. When you seek relaxation and serenity, aquamarine is the gemstone to wear.

Aquamarine Gemstone History

Aquamarine was discovered in Brazil and is the most abundant place for finding aquamarine stones. Aquamarine stones aren’t limited to Brazil, they can be found in Russia and Vietnam. Just in case you don’t get an opportunity to visit there, you can always find Aquamarine stones in California.

Also checkout our Gold Hoop Earrings Pierced

Ascendancy of Aquamarine

Aquamarine is from beryl which is a colorless beryllium aluminum silicate. The iron gives rise to the greenish-blue color of aquamarine, simulating the color of the ocean. Add some heat, and Aquamarines becomes a clearer blue color that adds appeal to modern jewelry.

It is a hard stone, making it ideal for wear on a daily basis. It is often used as a center stone in cocktail rings, because it is hard, and can endure daily wear without chipping or breaking.

When you need calm and serenity, and seek a ring to wear regularly, that glimmers and shines, that can be worn in winter, spring, or summertime, it’s time to turn towards aquamarine.

Aquamarine Ring

You can buy aquamarine ring by clicking on the following picture.

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Taxco Silver: Quality Craftsmanship, Exquisite Artistry

Taxco Silver with Mahogany

About 100 miles south of Mexico City, is a quaint charming town, with winding, cobblestone streets, known as Taxco, Mexico.

Today, Taxco Mexico is a tourist attraction, visited by many worldwide travelers, and its main attraction is silver. Some of the most exceptional silver jewelry pieces in the world can be found in Taxco, Mexico.

The earliest mining of silver in Taxco, Mexico happened before 1500. The Aztecs decorated the Gods in silver. One of the most well-known Aztec emperors, Montezuma, was embellished in silver jewelry.

Silver had a plethora of applications. It was used in ceremonies, and rites of passage. It decorated statutes and buildings, and It adorned the body.  

While some view decorating the body with precious metals, a relatively modern custom dating back a hundred years or so, the practice actually dates back to ancient times.

A review of early Mexican art shows piercings in ears, noses, and other body parts. Many of these piercings were decorated with silver.

Tammy Pinkerton

History

Between 1500 and 1700, silver mining in Taxco waned. There were more popular places in the world to mine silver. 

That changed dramatically in 1717, when two brothers from France, rediscovered silver in Taxco Mexico. Their mining exploration and discovery created a jumpstart in the local economy, and silver in Taxco became popular once again.

Turquoise, Obsidian, and Jade were integrated into statutes and carvings, and jewelry pieces, and were natural gemstones to blend with silversmithing.

In the 1920’s, William Spratling, an architect from New York, decided to retire in Taxco Mexico.

Spratling had been fascinated with pre-Columbian and Aztec works of art. 

Inspired by these artworks, and his knowledge of art deco, Spratling merged both styles and created a new innovative style of silversmithing jewelry. He is considered one of the most influential designers of jewelry in Taxco, Mexico. He figured out how to integrate the old with the new in jewelry design.

Find one of his signed pieces and you not only have a one-of-a-kind,  finely crafted piece of jewelry, but you also have a collectible piece that will bring a hefty price.

Over the next three decades, many artists from the United States relocated to Taxco Mexico and set up shop. Some trained local artisans in their models integrating stones and metals into fine works of the art design.

Artists and Taxco Silver

Artists like Margo De Taxco, Castillo, Gomez, and Pineda created some masterpiece models using silver and black onyx, opal, turquoise into their jewelry pieces. They crafted animals, floral, designs from ancient days with the modern use of gemstones. These signed pieces of jewelry are rare finds.

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Taxco silver is exceptional in quality not only because of its beauty, but because most of it is heavyweight. When you purchase Taxco silver, you are buying quality craftsmanship, exquisite artistry, and a unique blend of old mixed with new, in a solid, one-of-a-kind, piece of jewelry.

Taxco Silver with Mahogany
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Amethyst Gemstone: Calmness and Tranquility

amethyst gemstone

Amethyst Gemstone: Kings decorated crowns with amethyst. Religious leaders wore the stones on robes and headwear. Up until the 19th-century amethyst was considered a rare stone and was just as expensive as emeralds and diamonds. It became associated with royalty. 

Not only was the amethyst rare because it was hard to find, but because it was purple. Purple was a challenging color to dye, and amethyst was purple.  Prior to the 1900s, the purple color and scarcity made amethyst a rare gemstone, and affordable only for the very wealthy.

Amethyst was found abundant in Brazil and Uruguay, and Amethyst became affordable for the masses. The highest quality amethyst gemstones with the deepest purple colors are found in Uruguay.

Today amethyst, a quartz crystal is frequently crafted into beautiful jewelry pieces. Whether you are looking for a necklace, bracelet, earrings, or brooch, you can find an amethyst gemstone. Designs using amethyst gemstones can be found in high-end solid gold pieces or in high-end costume jewelry.

Amethyst is always purple in color but the deeper the purple, the more valuable the gemstone, and the higher the price. Amethyst is more than a stone to capture beauty. It has metaphysical meanings as well.

Amethyst Stone meaning

The word “amethyst” originates from the Greek word amethysts, meaning sober. It is said, that if you wear amethyst close to your body, you will not get drunk. 

Characteristics

Our world could use some amethyst today, as amethyst is a calming stone. When you need clarity of mind and tranquility, wear amethyst quartz crystal close, or keep it in your pocket. The mystical powers of amethyst will calm you down and give you peace of mind.

Amethyst is also symbolized with courage. It is rumored that in days gone by, Egyptian soldiers carried amethyst stones to battle.

Amethyst gemstone is for birthdays in February. It is often gifted as the stone for sixth, 17th, and 33rd wedding anniversaries.

Whether you want to emulate royalty, or need calm and tranquility, or just need to stay sober, amethyst is a great gemstone to wear.

Victorian Sterling Silver Ring Faceted Amethyst Cubic Zirconia Stones Cocktail

Amethyst Gemstone

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Chariot Necklace

I brought this purple and pink beaded necklace to Patrick, a geologist working at Jareds jewelry store for identification, and for a moment, I thought I had struck gold! 

“ I can’t believe you found a necklace with an entire strand of the chariot“

Cherry what? I had never heard of the gemstone, let alone knew what it was. He began explaining. “Tammy, this is a very rare gemstone. It is found in one river in Siberia.” “It is relatively newly discovered.” He repeated it…” only one river in the entire world has this gemstone.”

Patrick was mesmerized looking at this stone. Chariote is purple with lilac and violet swirls. It is so perfect, that it’s hard to believe that it could be natural from the earth. When you wear it, it will be noticed immediately.

Chariote was discovered in Siberia in 1948 in the Chara River. In 1977 it became scientifically identified.

It’s the purple strand at the center of this featured necklace. 

https://thesecretofthetarot.com/charoite-crystal

He rattled off the gemstones. “You have a necklace with strands of Crazy Lace Agate, Pink Pearl, and Chariote. 

In spite of its rarity, its relatively inexpensive, especially since it can only be found in Eastern Russia. Not many people are traveling to Siberia to find it!

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Designer-Crazy-Lace-Agate-Chroite-Swarovski-crystals-Pearls-pink-Necklace/323816038135?hash=item4b64f09ef7:g:89wAAOSwTStfXGxI

The Chara river means the river of “charm”. Perhaps that explains why this gemstone is known as a stone of enchantment. Maybe that is why Patrick, a geologist was in awe studying it.

It is known as a transformative stone. Transform sickness to health, poverty to wealth, and improve self-esteem, when wearing this stone. When you are in the process of change, or just need a change, Choirite is the gemstone to wear.

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How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry

Tammy Pinkerton

When Grandma cleaned tarnished  sterling silver, she reached for polish in a container, applied elbow grease, and hours later she was done, grime had disappeared.

There are easier ways to restore the brilliance in sterling silver, and bring back the sparkle. Just use good old fashioned soap and water, but purpose it in a special way.

First retrieve a bowl from the cabinet, and line it with tin foil. Then add a cup of warm water. Add a dash of salt, and a sprinkle of baking soda, and a few drops of dishwashing soap. Mix it up. Don’t drink it!

Drop the classic necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings , and pins into the bowl and let them soak for five or ten minutes.

Locate an old toothbrush and brush away dirt and grime. You are about to witness brilliance and shine.

 Don’t brush your teeth with that toothbrush again.

Empty the bowl of warm water, and fill it with a cup of cold water. Soak the vintage sterling silver jewelry pieces there. Then dry the silver with a towel, and Grandmas Jewelry will once again twinkle with that old fashioned dazzle.

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Coral – Mysterious, Spiritual, and Energetic Gemstone

Vintage Jewelry Store 8

Coral has been viewed as a mysterious gemstone, gifted with spiritual, energetic powers. Thousands of years ago, Coral was traded between the Mediterranean and India, countries.

Historically Coral has been viewed as a gemstone with mystical powers. The Romans hung branches of coral around children’s necks, to protect against evil forces, that might harm.

In Italy, coral was worn to protect people from the evil eye, and to promote fertility in women.

Coral is often used to make jewelry. It can be polished and given a phenomenal shine. Coral is found at the bottom of the ocean and grows in dark places. Environmental degradation in our waters has destroyed much of the coral reefs, and the demand for coral has grown astronomically, while the supply has decreased, creating an increase in price for coral.

Coral once abundant is now in short supply.

According to the Gemology institute, red coral is the most valuable of coral gemstones, but you can find coral in shades of pink, and even black.

Protect coral jewelry, by storing it away from heat, as heat can fade the colors of coral.

Whether you want to wear coral to protect against evil spirits or raise your mystical powers, or just because you like it, coral is becoming scarce and your jewelry will increase in value.

Click here to see more coral jewelry in my eBay store.

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Murano Glass Jewelry

Murano glass is some of the finest glass produced in the world. Crafted in Italy, Murano glass is known for cream of the crop, hand blown glass. It can be found in many jewelry pieces. You can discover Murano glass in earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

The Murano glass making began in the late 1800’s, in Venice Italy, and continues to this day. It is hand blown, and often has a signature identifying it. Don’t be fooled. Not all Murano glass is signed. Some of the older pieces have not been signed.

Murano glass will say that it was made in Venice, or made in Italy. It won’t say made in Murano. If you see a piece that says made in Murano, you are looking at a counterfeit.

Sometimes nothing will be written on the piece, particularly in older glass pieces.

One way to identify Murano glass is by noting that it is always hand blown. You won’t find seams. You will often find specks of gold flakes in Murano Glass. Look for bubbles and irregularities. If it’s too perfect, it’s probably a counterfeit, or mass produced.

Murano glass can run into thousands of dollars. Look for bargains at estate sales, and vintage stores.

Murano glass jewelry is a high quality treasure that can be passed down from one generation to the next.

Click here to see more Murano glass jewelry in my eBay store.

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Micro Mosaic Jewelry

One of the greatest bargains in Jewelry is micro mosaic jewelry, because of the painstaking and time intensive process of crafting these jewelry pieces.

They are fine works of art design, and craftsmanship. Usually, they are crafted into brooches and bracelets.

Micro mosaic jewelry first began in Italy in the late 1700’s, and the highest quality of these pieces are found there. In the 1800’s, they were often made specifically for wealthy donors to the church. A jewelry designer would craft a micro mosaic brooch, or bracelet, for a wealthy donor, as a thank you gift. Often these were modeled after a scene in the church.

In the middle of the 1800’s, micro mosaic jewelry was often sold in Italy as a replica of a tourist attraction, that visitors could take home with them, after their visit.

Micro Mosaic jewelry uses a material called tesserae. Some pieces of micro mosaic jewelry use thousands of these pieces, to craft a design. Often flowers are arranged in a mosaic pattern, using tesserae. Sometimes black marble or black onyx is lined around the outside of the design, to highlight the design.

The highest quality of these designs were usually crafted in Italy, because the design originated there.

Micro mosaic jewelry is a treasure that can be passed down from one generation to the next.

Look for these and other pieces of jewelry in my eBay store. Click here to visit my eBay store.

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Turquoise

One of the oldest gems to be mined was turquoise. Turquoise was mined by the ancient Egyptians over 6000 years ago. The finest turquoise in the world is mined in Iran. The Aztecs used turquoise in Mosaic work, dating back thousands of years.

Today, turquoise is often mined and transformed into jewelry in the southwestern states. The native Americans frequently sculpt turquoise into silver jewelry.

Turquoise contains iron and copper. The sky-blue color of turquoise is the most desirable and is caused by the copper, that is a part of its chemical composition.

The green colored turquoise is caused by the iron in the gemstone.

Turquoise is a very desirable gemstone in jewelry. The light blue or sky blue color of turquoise is the most desirable. The native Americans are known for skilled use of turquoise in jewelry.

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The Tubular Clasp

One way to date antique or period jewelry is to look at the clasp on the jewelry.

Back in the 1890’s bracelets were frequently made with tubular clasp, or a trombone clasp. It was popular in the late 1800’s, and was used in jewelry making up until the 1940’s.

There are two types of tubular clasps found on antique or period jewelry. The tube or trombone clasp, and the tube hinge. The tube hinge is the earliest type.

There is never a absolute clear line in identifying exact time periods, because makers of jewelry, often overlapped styles, and motifs.

In general if you find a bracelet or piece of jewelry with a tubular clasp, you can more likely than not, date it to before 1940.