How to Buy Vintage Jewelry

Vintage jewelry is making a big comeback. Shiny crystals and unique animal motifs can dress up a simple jacket or make a scarf or hat something really special. Vintage rings are usually sparkly and ornate, made up of both false and genuine gemstones. If you are starting a collection or just want a piece or two of vintage jewelry for a special occasion, finding it and buying it is all part of the fun. Ready to take the plunge and get yourself some vintage adornments? Here are some tips on how to buy vintage jewelry.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Garage and estate sales
• Antique shows and shops
• Internet access

1. Look at samples of vintage jewelry. Do your homework so that you can tell what is vintage and what a replica of vintage jewelry is. If authenticity is important to you, you’ll want to do some research and learn to recognize and age jewelry pieces by the closures they use, prevalent motifs and popular designers.

2. Go to garage and estate sales. You’ll find your best bargains in those little cardboard boxes full of “junk” jewelry at your local garage and estate sales. Although estate sales usually are run by knowledgeable antique sellers, you can still find some great pieces at terrific prices right in your own backyard.

3. Go to vintage clothing stores. Vintage clothing stores sell more than just dresses and purses, and you’ll find nice vintage jewelry pieces up by the counters. Staff at these locations sometimes know a bit about vintage pieces and can help you start a collection. Most places should be able to tell you what type of gemstones or fake stones are used and prices will be fair.

4. Go to antique sales. Antique malls and larger sales always have vintage jewelry, but the prices will be higher than what you would find at estate or garage sales as some pieces may be on consignment. Here you can expect to find authentic pieces and knowledgeable salespeople so expect to spend a bit more but get quality pieces.

5. Check out resale shops like Goodwill. People donate all kinds of items and resale donation shops usually have a large collection of jewelry from all different time periods. If you have done your homework, you may be able to snatch up some valuable items for pennies on the dollar!

6. Look on eBay. If you like to shop from home eBay.com and other auction sites have plenty to offer in the vintage jewelry department. A recent search on eBay came up with over 86,000 entries, including rings, necklaces and beads from different eras. Read the descriptions carefully and hold the seller accountable to sell you quality authentic vintage jewelry. Read people's reviews of the sellers before making a costly purchase (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Tell your family and friends about your desires to collect vintage pieces so they can purchase some for you as holiday gifts.
• Don't overpay for fake pieces.

Resources

• Ebay.com

[teknon]

on 9/8/2009 I am trying to learn more about vintage jewelry. I want to know how I can tell if the jewelry is being sold for too much. I want to resell the jewelry and don't want to pay more than I can sell it for.