Authentic Antique Diamond Jewelry

Written By Anonymous on Friday, April 8, 2011 | 3:44 PM

If you are looking forward to buying antique diamond jewelry, the first thing to consider is the 4Cs of the diamond. Knowing the elements that reveal the true value and rarity of a diamond is the first step to know if you’re likely to possess an antique diamond ring for keeps. The 4Cs comprise of Carat, which refers to a diamond’s weight; Clarity, which measures the purity of a diamond; Cut, which determines the diamond’s brilliance and Color, which gauges a diamond’s whiteness. Remember that antique diamond jewelry personifies character and history, which sets it apart from other modern designs. Before you purchase antique diamond jewelry such as ring for wedding or engagement ring, here are some of things you might want to consider: 1. Look for professional appraisal. Make sure that the antique diamond jewelry is professionally appraised before your pay for it. By doing this, you can be sure that all of its gems are authentic. You can also determine if the jewelry has been repaired or if it need repairs in case there are stone chips or cracks. 2. Find proof. Look for a photograph with a hallmark or written and signed interpretation to know when was the diamond jewelry authenticated. 3. Get estimated repair cost beforehand. In case the antique diamond jewelry needs a repair, get an estimated cost of before proceeding. 4. Be open-minded. There are gemstones and designs other people consider as unlucky. If you’re not into these myths, you might want to consider this antique diamond jewelry because they might be less expensive than others. 5. Be meticulous. Make sure that you inspect and examine closely the condition of the antique jewelry such as an engagement ring. For instance, it's always best to take note of the prongs holding the center diamond and the shank of the ring. 6. Research, research, research! Do some research on 10X jeweler’s loupe because it will give you more information on antique diamond jewelry such as caring and maintenance and others.
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Care and Cleaning for Antique Jewelry

Written By Anonymous on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 | 3:41 PM

One of the most important considerations for preserving valuable heirlooms, like jewelry, is choosing the correct means of storing them. Earrings and rings should be stored flat, in lined boxes that will protect them from being misshapen or scratched. In some cases, it is advisable to limit their exposure to air, in order to prevent the discoloring effects of oxidation. Whenever possible, keep these precious keepsakes in their original, velvet or satin lined boxes. This also serves to prevent them from becoming tangled, or from losing small but valuable pieces like the backs that secure earrings, or delicate clasps. Finely crafted chains and necklaces are best hung to avoid becoming knotted or tangled. If you have a set of hand strung pearls, it is essential that you store them flat, and away from excessive moisture. Pearls are hand knotted onto a fine strand of silk, and moisture can cause such fibers to weaken and break. Pieces like pearl rings usually have their gems secured with adhesives that may be dissolved by the cleaning solution. Some gems, like pearl and emeralds are porous. Submerging them and subjecting them to the vibration of the cleaning machines is inadvisable. Ultrasonic cleaners are best for non-electroplated gold or silver chains, and hard gems like topaz or sapphires set in precious metals. Others, with the exception of pearls, can usually be gently cleaned with a soft brush and soapy water. Although many antique jewelry pieces can safely be cared for at home, it is very important to consider each individual piece when choosing your cleaning method. In some cases, you will want to take your fine jewelry to a jeweler for a professional cleaning
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Elegance of Antique Jewelry

Written By Anonymous on Monday, April 4, 2011 | 3:39 PM

Antique jewelries or vintage jewelries are treasures from the past, a glimpse and a perfect example of the beauty of a bygone era. Antique jewelry has that certain aura that draws us into it. It is difficult to pinpoint or determine what exactly draws us to antique jewelry. Maybe because of the item's history, or its historical value or its elegant appeal, but whatever it is, antique jewelry never goes out of fashion. The great thing about antique jewelry/ vintage jewelry is that its value does not depreciate but only appreciates with time. Some pieces may well become collector's item or museum pieces and it may fetch as much as a small fortune. As it ages, its value rises and its importance becomes more prominent. Antique jewelry also stands out when placed along and together with contemporary jewelry, making you the focal point or the center of attention in any occasion. Original antique jewelry pieces are also replicated and reproduced by many jewelers. They often sell these to people claiming that they are unique and original antique jewelry. Sometimes it is difficult to tell if a piece is original or not. So it is important that you just buy antique jewelry from reputable dealers and jewelers who have proven their worth in the industry of antique jewelry trade. It is also important that you do a little research before you buy an antique jewelry. You can readily do so with your local library or through the internet. Auctions often have instructive manuals and booklets that would help you understand, identify and know the history and statistics about each of the pieces.
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Modern Jewelry Design

Written By Anonymous on Saturday, April 2, 2011 | 3:36 PM

Victorian style: Precisely there are three distinct types of Victorian jewelry - the early Victorian, the mid, and the late Victorian jewelry. While the early Victorian Vintage ornaments are typically inspired by nature, the Mid Victorian pieces characteristically corresponds with a time of sorrow. This is the era when Queen Elisabeth's husband had ceased to exist hence the somber feeling has found a way into the jewelry designs. Yes these were also solemn. However, in the Late Victorian period feminine designs prevailed. Art Deco jewelry: Stiff yet extremely stylized design remains as the significant reflections of the era. In fact, the style has been greatly inspired by the modern jewelry designers. Art Deco jewelry has been inspired by different cultures, which includes the American Indian art, Greek and Roman architecture, and the ancient Egyptian art. Research proves that the Cube art and Dadaism has also influenced this sheer art form. The term 'vintage' or 'antique' stands as the sheer value setter for your precious possession. Alongside the steep demand in modern jewelry the market for vintage ornament has been witnessing a sea change. Indeed the market for antique broaches, pins, hair pins, pendants has increased with the ever evolving demand for diamond necklaces, bracelets and earrings.
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