Many pieces of antique jewelry have been in families for generations. For the individuals who own them, they represent something memorable and sentimental. They are also used to signify certain milestones.

Sometimes upon word of a recent or planned engagement, a cherished antique engagement ring is given as a gift. Women are known to pass on treasured pieces such as brooches to their daughters when they come of age. It is not unusual for fathers to also pass on watches to their sons when they reach manhood.

The significance of these pieces can never be overstated. They can help to strengthen family bonds as most individuals look forward to receiving these heirlooms. These family heirlooms often have interesting stories attached that are recounted over the years.

Buying antique jewelry

Making any type of purchase of antiques can be challenging for the inexperienced. This is even more significant since vintage pieces are generally more expensive. Based on this it is important for the inexperienced to get some guidance during the selection process.

This may be some initial research, but this should not take the place of a professional appraisal. It would also be helpful if the seller provides a certificate of authenticity. Granted this too can be a challenge as it is not easy to tell if this is genuine.

With some reading you will have some idea of what to look for on a certificate of authenticity. This will help if you cannot afford to have your own appraiser. Knowing something about types of metals and stones can also be an indicator of the item’s age and value.

Caring for antique jewelry

Buying these items is only the beginning, as they will need to be kept looking their best. This calls for proper storage as some material such as silver can be dented or scratched.

It should be remembered that especially intricate pieces are fragile. Owners should ensure that any storage container is big enough to avoid this, and the containers should be lined.

They can be broken when banged against objects and stones can become dislodged. It is important to do what is necessary to care for them so that they retain their luster over the years.

Pearls for example are said to benefit from being worn constantly. It has been said that oils from the skin help to keep them shiny. With that said, some types are best worn only occasionally.

They will need to be cleaned occasionally, even if they are rarely worn. While some owners might be tempted to try doing this them elves this is not always advisable. It is best to get them professionally cleaned whenever possible.

Part of the appeal of antique jewelry is the hands-on approach that was paid to design and craftsmanship. The designers and craftsmen of the past did not have the kind of tools that are widely available today. Many owners and buyers place these pieces in the same league as artworks by the world’s masters.

Many people buy antique jewelry as an investment, this is because like land its value will increase over time so the older the piece of jewelry is the more expensive it will be.

If you are lucky enough to have been handed down or have purchased a piece of antique jewelry whether it is a necklace, ring or broach it is strongly recommended that you insure your treasured piece.

You may assume that your antique jewelry is covered by your home insurance however this is not always the case, quite often your home insurance will cover your piece of antique jewelry is stolen but it may not cover your jewelry if it is lost or damaged.

Although you will never be able to replace the sentimental value of a piece of antique jewelry it may easy your mind if you can at least replace the item should it be lost.

It is wise to read your insurance policy very carefully or contact your insurance company to ask if you are covered for this type of event.

If your current insurance policy does not cover you fully for your antique jewelry then you may be able take out additional cover however it important to know and understand the cover you are going to be paying for.

Make sure your policy will cover you for loss and damage and also check if you will still be covered should the loss or damage happens when you are out of the country.

Check that you will be reimburse for the items full replacement cost and will you receive a replacement piece of jewelry or could you opt for a cash settlement.

Quite often your insurance company will ask for an appraisal before they allow you to take out the insurance to cover your antique jewelry. Check if this is something you can arrange yourself or if it is something your insurance company will need to arrange.

Will you have to pay an excess, if you lose or damage you antique jewelry and need to make a claim will you have to pay a sum of money before the claim can go through, how will this effect your existing policy and most important how much is the excess.