Antique Jewelry

The seven factors that determine the value of your pearl earrings, brooches, bracelets and strands of pearls are: "Size Shape Color Luster Surface Quality Nacre Quality Orient" as described by the Gemological Institute of America. Pearl Size Pearls are measured in millimeter (mm) size and equals one measure of value. Rarity is a major factor in value as well. For instance, the standard size of an akoya pearls is 6...

Arts and Crafts Movement was an interesting time in which jewelry making, mainly in silver with uncut and cabochon cut stones, was performed from start to finish by one craftsman. Brightly colored enameling was often used. Brooches were popular in that movement. The jewelers during that time were traditionalist.  They did not follow the industrial revolution that occurred in the Victorian Period where jewelry was first stamped out and then...

Platinum is one of the rarest metals on earth.   This precious metal comes out of the ground pure white. Some of the most delicately made vintage engagement rings and jewelry is made in platinum. Eighty percent of platinum production comes from Africa. During times of economic stability, platinum is twice as expensive as gold.  Economic uncertainty brings the price of platinum down sometimes lower than gold. The biggest benefit of...

Rubies are considered the most valuable colored stone which make highly prized ruby rings, necklaces and earrings. They bring the highest per carat price of all colored stones followed by emeralds and sapphires of the same carat size. People are drawn to the color of red rubies because of its trademark of love and    passion, thus red roses and rubyjewelry are given as expressions of love.Rubies are very durable...