Article: Inherited or Flea Market Find: How to Estimate the Value of Your Antique Jewelry
Inherited or Flea Market Find: How to Estimate the Value of Your Antique Jewelry
Whether you've inherited a family heirloom or unearthed one at a flea market or garage sale, it's natural to wonder if it has a true market value. Estimating the value of antique jewelry requires a careful eye, as several criteria come into play: metal, stones, period, hallmarks, and much more. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you see things more clearly.
Identify the precious metal: gold, silver, platinum?
The first thing to check is the type of metal. Is it gold, silver, platinum, or simply plated?
-
Look for hallmarks : 18-karat gold jewelry often bears an eagle's head; silver is often marked with a Minerva's head or a crab; plated jewelry bears a square hallmark.
-
Test the reaction to the magnet : precious metals are not magnetic.
-
Observe the patina : Antique gold or silver jewelry often has a natural patina that is not found on imitations. Silver will oxidize and turn black in some areas, while gold does not.
Regional Arlesian earrings in gold and silver
Examine the Gemstones
The presence of a gem can greatly vary the value of the jewel.
-
Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds : these precious stones have lasting value, especially if they are natural and untreated.
-
Synthetic stones : very widespread from the 20th century (notably Verneuil sapphires), they have a lower value.
-
Consult a gemologist : only a professional can identify the nature of a stone with certainty.
Determine the Period and Style
The period in which a piece of jewelry was made greatly influences its value. The most sought-after antique jewelry often comes from the following periods:
- Consulate and Empire (1799-1814) : inspiration from Antiquity, cameos, mythological scene, pearls
-
Napoleon III (1852-1870) : strong symbolism, floral motifs, integrated hair.
-
Belle Epoque and Art Nouveau (1895-1914) : naturalistic and organic forms, stylized women, enamels.
-
Art Deco (1920-1935) : geometric lines, marked contrasts.
-
1940s-1950s-1960s : more imposing jewelry, jewelry from renowned brands and synthetic stones.
Each style has its own codes and its fans. A well-identified piece can be highly sought-after.
Art Nouveau period medal in plique-à-jour enamel
Assess the Overall Condition
A damaged antique piece of jewelry, even if it is gold, will have less value.
-
Broken clasp, deformed chain, missing or chipped stone : these are all points that lower the price.
-
Visible restoration : may alter the integrity of the piece.
-
Natural patina : on the contrary, it can enhance authenticity and therefore interest.
Get a Professional Appraisal
For a serious estimate, it is better to call on an expert:
-
Antique dealer specializing in antique jewelry
-
Gemologist
-
Trusted jeweler (be careful, most are not gemologists)
Ask for a certificate or written opinion , especially if you are considering a sale.
Where to Sell Antique Jewelry ?
Once the value has been estimated, several options are available to you for selling your antique jewelry:
-
At an antique dealer specializing in antique jewelry : ideal for old or distinctive pieces.
-
In the auction room : sometimes allows you to obtain a higher price, but often offers a lower starting price to attract the interest of potential buyers, which presents a risk.
-
On a specialized platform : some sites are dedicated to the sale of antique jewelry with inspection of the pieces.
-
From a jeweler or gold buying professional : fast, but at a lower price than the market.
-
Via a consignment sale : you receive the proceeds from the sale once the jewelry is purchased, with a commission.
Maison Mohs: Trusted Expertise for Antique Jewelry
Maison Mohs offers a professional appraisal of your antique jewelry by a qualified gemologist . Depending on the nature and quality of the piece, we can make you a purchase offer or offer to sell the jewelry on consignment, at a price equal to or higher than the market price.
Conclusion
Estimating the value of antique jewelry isn't an exact science, but rather a combination of observation, knowledge, and expertise. It's best to take the time to carefully analyze each criterion before selling or insuring it.
Do you have an antique piece of jewelry and want to know its value?
Contact us or discover our free appraisal service to have your piece appraised with complete peace of mind and sell an antique piece of jewelry.
Take an appointment using our form
