Why Choose Estate Jewelry?
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Estate jewelry is jewelry that is purchased (or sometimes inherited) from the collection of another person, whether departed or living. Basically, estate jewelry is used jewelry that has had a previous owner. This type of jewelry may or may not be vintage or antique. There are many reasons why people choose estate jewelry.
One reason is its value. Often, estate sales feature incredible prices on the items. This is why so many online auction sellers frequent estate sales -- to find valuable items at good prices. Another reason is for personal use. If you're looking for that one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, you just might find it at an estate sale. The type of jewelry you'll discover can vary widely and simply depends on the preferences of the previous owner. Some estate sales have incredible fine jewelry, while others feature inexpensive vintage costume jewelry.
By definition, antique jewelry is anything created before 1930. Everything after 1930 is usually called vintage jewelry. After the 1930's, women were more likely to desire more inexpensive pieces to match their various outfits, which led to the birth of costume jewelry. Costume jewelry can range from colorful plastic beads to rhinestone encrusted hair combs and everything in between. At many estate sales, you'll find colorful vintage pieces that may hold value, or at the very least, personal interest.
Often, you can find gorgeous heirloom pieces at estate sales as well. Lockets, cameos, cocktail rings and bejeweled brooches are just a few potential treasures you might come across on your search. It helps to have an idea of what you are looking for before heading to an estate sale. If not, then you may end up spending more money than you can afford or spending money on pieces that are different than what you wanted.
You may also want to read up on different kinds of collectible estate jewelry as well. There are guidebooks available that feature black and white as well as color pictures of various pieces. These books also list the maker of the jewelry, various details about the jewelry, and the current market value. Being informed and prepared is one of the smartest things you can do, especially if you're estate shopping for resale items. After your first estate sale, it's likely you'll get hooked and want to go again and again!
Frances Coleman - All Rights Reserved
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