How to build a collection of antique jewelry?
Knowing how to distinguish a genuine antique jewel from an imitation, knowing how to assess its value : these are things that seem very complicated for the novice. By purchasing your antique jewelry from Miller , you can be sure of acquiring authentic pieces that have been appraised, at fair prices. But if you like rummaging around in the markets, here are some tips that should help you build a collection of vintage jewelry and art deco jewelry .
Photo credit: Christie’s
Internet: your ally
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, you're in luck. People who were interested in antique jewelry even twenty years ago faced a much more daunting challenge. Today, you can get tons of answers by typing a few keywords into Google. Before that, you had to constantly visit experts, read books , etc. So it's much easier to build an expertise in antique jewelry today.
However, the Internet is not a panacea either. Nothing replaces talking to enthusiasts who have a great deal of knowledge in the field, visiting specialized jewelers like Miller Paris. If you really love jewelry, the path to knowledge will be enjoyable to follow. Of course, you will make mistakes, this is quite normal in any learning process. But you can also make rare discoveries, such as Sterlé rings . In the collection mode, you can't win every time, this also applies to vintage jewelry .
Collecting antique jewelry, an expensive passion?
Antique jewelry is like contemporary pieces: there is something for every budget . In this type of jewelry, the most important criteria are the authenticity and uniqueness of a piece. It is also important to choose vintage jewelry that you like and that suits you.
1925 Art Deco Bracelet – Miller Antique Jewelry
Because even if we collect, jewelry is first and foremost made to be worn . It must speak to you, touch you. Simon Teakle, who was head of the jewelry department at Christie's New York for 20 years and then opened his own boutique specializing in antique jewelry, says the same thing:
" When you invest in a piece of jewelry, you invest in your present and future happiness. You can part with some pieces eventually, but when you start your collection you have to educate yourself, familiarize yourself with the different periods. When you start, it doesn't matter whether the jewelry is signed or not, and it doesn't matter if the pieces you buy don't perfectly match the theoretical description of a piece of jewelry from such a period. The important thing is that the antique jewelry is authentic and that you like it. "
Vintage jewelry you fell for
According to Dana Kiyomura, this parameter of love at first sight is the most important when starting such a collection:
“ For beginners, the best way to start, and then gradually expand your knowledge, is to listen to your heart. You should choose according to your sensibilities, your lifestyle and your way of dressing. Choose antique jewelry that you can wear every day.
And as your passion grows and your knowledge deepens, you can specialize in periods that you particularly like, and acquire more expensive signature pieces that become investments. Right now, the most important thing is to train your eye, to wear things that you really like. That will help you find your calling. Will you become a thematic collector, or a period collector, or someone who picks up everything?
Following your personal tastes can sometimes lead to good investments. Sure, not everyone is Karl Lagerfeld, but he was one of the first to take an interest in the antique Suzanne Belperron brooches , which are highly sought after today.
Jewelry that keeps its value
While the emotional aspect is important, you should also not rush into buying something because you have fallen in love with an antique piece of jewelry . The higher the price, the more important it is to consider the following criteria to ensure that the piece you are buying will at least retain its value, or appreciate:
- Quality materials (gold, platinum, etc.)
- Pieces with impeccable finishes, a sign of first-rate know-how
- Rarity
In our next article, we will give you specific suggestions for antique jewelry that are perfect for starting a collection .
Also see: our Art Deco rings from the 1920s
