Expert Tips to Buy Vintage Jewelry

Owning vintage jewelry used to be the domain of only the super-rich, but times have changed—and now anyone can join in on the vintage market.

From pre-owned wedding rings that are more affordable to estate pieces that are one-of-a-kind and handmade by talented artisans, there is a different kind of beauty in pre-owned Edwardian jewelry.

If you're ready to join the trend, here are some expert tips on how to find the perfect piece of vintage bling for your collection or special occasion:

Rule 1: Make Sure It's Real

Before buying any piece like vintage Piaget watches, it's essential to ensure that the metals are not coated with rhodium plating or paint.

As different metals age at different rates, they can fade and become uneven in color if they're plated—which makes detecting whether they're real or not more complicated than usual.

To avoid this, always check to see if the piece has a hallmark or other identifying stamp that will help you find out its origins.

If it doesn't have such a stamp, consider taking it to a reputable jeweler for examination and evaluation.

Rule 2: Make Sure It's in Good Condition

While finding a ring that fits perfectly is a dream come true for many women, it's important to remember that the best vintage bling will usually have a story.

Make sure you avoid any pieces with chips, cracks, or imperfections in the metal—as these may indicate structural damage to the piece.

Rule 3: Avoid Buying Over- or Under-Sized Rings

Dainty hoop earrings were also popular at this time, so don't be surprised if they seem too tight when you try them on.

Instead of sizing up or down, consider leaving such pieces to sit in your jewelry box and remembering them for their historical value. If you decide to size them to fit, make sure the jeweler you work with knows how to handle vintage jewels so that no damage is done to the setting.

Rule 4: Give Yourself an Inch—or Two

Most vintage Edwardian jewelry is smaller than the ones you'll find in retail stores today, so it's best to be prepared before buying.

To avoid any post-purchase distress over a ring that fits more snugly than expected, bring your sizing wires to be sized before trying on anything.

Rule 5: Verify the Seller's Claims

When purchasing vintage jewels online, it's essential to check for any seller's claims about physical condition and authenticity.

If you're not an expert, it's best to ask a jeweler or gemologist to verify such claims—as there might be more damage than you can see on the metal or setting.

Rule 6: Find Out What You're Paying for

When you receive your vintage ring, it's important to remember that the bling alone doesn't have much value when it comes to resale.

To get the most out of jewelry, consider asking a jeweler or gemologist about its probable origins—which can help you determine a fair price.