Know the value of your gold jewelry
Do you want to estimate the value of vintage jewelry? We'll give you some tips to help you determine the value of your secondhand jewelry.
The criteria for valuing a vintage jewel
Authenticity and Quality of the stones
The size and nature of the stones that adorn your antique jewelry have a considerable impact on its valuation. We will first assess whether the stones are genuine and not synthetic or imitation. Synthetic diamonds, also called lab-grown diamonds, zirconium oxides, or any other imitations of natural stones, considerably reduce the value of a pre-owned piece of jewelry. Genuine gemstones generally have slight imperfections such as inclusions or color nuances. Conversely, synthetic stones often have an overly perfect appearance with very vivid colors. Numerous tests and binocular observations are carried out by our gemologists to determine the nature of the gemstones that adorn your antique jewelry and their estimated weight, called carat.
Period and Rarity
The age of a piece of jewelry affects its value. For example, an Art Deco ring from the 1920s and 1930s will generally be more valuable than a similar contemporary creation due to its rarity. There are many indicators that can be used to date an antique piece of jewelry. The materials used, such as the color of gold or platinum, the finishes, the way the stones are cut, and the style, are all indicators that help date a vintage piece of jewelry.
Quality of work
Careful craftsmanship adds more value than industrial manufacturing. The precision of handcrafted work is particularly appreciated.
Quantity of gold
The karat content of gold is an important indicator. Check the hallmarks engraved on the jewelry, if any, usually on the inside of the band for a ring. The higher the gold percentage, the higher the value. Gold weight particularly impacts the value of heavy rings like vintage signet rings or gold tank rings.
Desirability
A piece of jewelry's value is also assessed based on its desirability. For example, the Art Deco period for rings is highly prized, which increases the value of your jewelry. Art Deco brooches, despite their sublime craftsmanship, are less easy to sell, which tends to lower their valuation.
