Opals: October’s fiery birthstone

October birthday girls (and boys), opals, your birthstone is a magnificent gem that defines “play of colors.” As the fall brings muted colors and less daylight, the opal defies that to bring fire and splashes of color. The American Gem Society notes that the name, opal, “comes from the Greek Opallos, meaning “to see a change […]

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What I learned at my first jewelry appraisal

[This week, I’m turning my blog over to a client who asked if she could write a few words about her recent (first) jewelry appraisal.] I don’t consider myself as having a lot of jewelry. I do have a few heirlooms: a couple of bracelets from my grandmother, my grandfather’s watch cover and chain, and […]

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5 Tips for Selling Your Jewelry

I just saw a newspaper ad that asks, “Is it time to downsize your jewelry box?” If you’ve wondered about it, and find yourself looking at “we buy gold” signs in your neighborhood, this might be the time to consider whether you’d like to sell your jewelry (or at least certain pieces). There are several […]

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The ABCs of Taking Care of Your Jewelry

With back-to-school right around the corner, it’s time to get to basics — and to brush up on the ABCs of taking care of your jewelry. Whether your gems rival the crown jewels or heirlooms from a loved one, proper care can keep the sparkle in those jewels and in your eyes. A is for […]

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Art Nouveau and Art Deco Jewelry: Collectible favorites

The most popular vintage jewelry pieces I see in collections are Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Here’s some background on these two beautiful design periods. Art Nouveau This design trend (literally, “new art”) ran from the 1880s to World War I.It emerged as trade with Japan opened up and Europe became fascinated with Asian design […]

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Tips for buying vintage and estate jewelry

Do you love vintage and estate jewelry? Here are some pointers to help you get what you’re paying for. The value of estate jewelry According to Diamond Estate Jewelry Buyers, “estate jewelry … refers to any piece of jewelry that has been previously owned, regardless of age. Generally speaking, there are three types of estate […]

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