How to Identify Antique Jewelry
When you hear antique jewellery the first thing that comes to your mind is probably the brooch your grandmother used to wear. But antique jewelry includes many other things such as necklace, ear rings, bangles, rings and many more. Moreover the jewelry belongs to different historical periods.
Each period has its own unique style. Having an idea of the distinct styles of different historical periods will help you to identify antique jewelry. Keep on reading to get some useful tips.
- If you wish to buy antique jewelry the first thing you should do is read about the history of jewelry. This will familiarize you with the styles of antique jewelry belonging to different time period such Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian and so on. Antique jewelry also get their name from cultural aspects such as Art Deco, Nouveau, Retro and many more.
- Check the material the antique piece is made of. This will help you to determine the date of the jewelry. For example Platinum appeared in the 1800. The jewelry belonging to Georgian or Victorian age may be crafted of platinum.
- If you are buying a necklace measuring its length will give you an idea about its date. 19th century necklaces are shorter in comparison to 20th century necklaces especially the pieces designed in the “flapper” period.
- The motifs on the piece of jewelry may also help you to identify antique jewelry. If you see motifs like flowers, heart and animals then the piece belongs to the Victorian age and if you see geometric shapes on the piece of jewelry then it belongs to the Art Deco period.
When you can identify antique jewelry chances are less that you will not get authentic jewelry. Hence it is required that you acquire a little knowledge about them before you buy them.