Estate jewelry refers to any item that’s been previously owned. These pieces have grown more popular with shoppers over the last few decades, as they offer the opportunity to get high-quality materials at an affordable price. People also appreciate the rarity of many estate pieces and the meaningfulness that come with them. For those who are new to shopping secondhand jewelry, here are a few tips to keep in mind for a successful purchase.
Do:
Your research.
Doing your due diligence before you start looking for estate pieces will make the buying process go much smoother. There are plenty of online resources available that can help you better understand this part of the jewelry market. Being well-informed will allow you to avoid regrettable purchases, accurately compare costs, and identify items that hold real value.
Inspect the piece carefully.
Since estate jewelry is pre-owned, you want to make sure the piece you buy has been well taken care of. While you can expect to see some signs of wear, items being sold should still be in relatively good condition. Examine the piece from every angle, checking for cracks, chipped or missing stones, loose prongs, and evidence of improper repairs. This will help you decide whether or not it’s a worthwhile purchase.
Ask about its history.
Learning where an estate piece is from and the story behind it can increase its sentimental value. New owners are likely to cherish secondhand jewelry more when it comes with an interesting history. If the exact background of a piece is unknown, a jeweler may still provide you with some information on the time period it was made in so you can better understand its artistic significance.
Don’t:
Buy solely for investment purposes.
Although fine jewelry often appreciates in value, it’s usually best not to view estate pieces as an investment. It’s better to buy an item that you’re drawn to and you intend to wear. Therefore, it should complement your personal taste and lifestyle. In most cases, thoughtful purchases will retain their value, allowing you to make a profit if you wish to sell in the future.
Shop just anywhere.
As with any other kind of jewelry, it’s essential to acquire estate pieces from a reputable retailer. An experienced jeweler who knows how to accurately authenticate and evaluate these items will ensure you’re getting a quality product for a fair price. Buying at auction or online comes with the risk of overpaying or not knowing what you’ll actually receive.
Only go for a bargain.
While estate jewelry is generally sold for a fraction of what new pieces cost, they can still be spendy. It’s important to stick to a budget but also realize that if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. There are many factors taken into account when pricing estate items, including the materials, craftsmanship, rarity, and condition. Don’t hesitate to ask how the price of an item was determined to help make sure you’re paying a reasonable rate.
If you’re interested in adding estate jewelry to your collection of treasures, visit Steve’s Precious Metals in Redding, CA. We have a broad assortment of pieces that we sell on consignment and a team of knowledgeable professionals who can help you find just the right item to match what you’re looking for. Call (530) 223-0170 to speak with one of our staff members today. You can also shop select estate pieces online or visit our store to see our full inventory.