How Vintage Jewelry Can Transform A Look When selecting an outfit for the day, few additions can give your ensemble that extra bit of pop quite like the right accessories. Scarves and belts can be functional and funky, but it’s difficult to top the personal fashion statement one gets from wearing vintage jewelry. The wearer's fashion point of view or an appreciation for classic designs can be demonstrated or for use as a conversation starter with a stranger in the coffee shop, unique pieces, such as broaches, necklaces or eye-catching rings are going to do the trick. What Exactly Qualifies as “Vintage”? Because the meaning of “vintage” can be rather broad, it is sometimes difficult to know how it pertains specifically to jewelry. Plus, the use of similar terms like “antique” and “estate” when describing jewelry can further muddy the waters. "Vintage" typically refers to an item that is more in the range of 50 years old, while "antique" is generally used for items which are at least one hundred years old. To further define it as "estate" jewelry, the piece will likely have been owned by someone else. However, it’s important to note that “vintage” can mean different things to different people. The term could make reference to an item clearly tied to a certain design style, for instance MidCentury, but not a specific age as some would say. Before claiming an item is vintage or before purchasing jewelry labeled as such, it is vital that one pinpoints a piece’s era. Finding Top Quality Pieces As with any purchase of a preowned item, it’s always a great idea to do a little research before handing over money for a piece of jewelry. There are a few things that can prove useful in this process including knowing a specific designers’ marks or a company’s icon and having an understanding of the styles from different eras. If an item’s patina or gem-setting method can help peg it to a period of time, it’s best to be able to identify those traits. Older, preowned jewelry ordinarily is one of a kind, so if a store is displaying five rings of the same style, those are new pieces rather than vintage. A piece might have been manufactured last week and then treated to seem aged. Reputable sellers are able to show that their jewelry is not only authentically vintage, but also that gemstones or metals on the pieces are genuine. Prior to making a purchase, buyers shouldn't hesitate to ask questions. Caring for a More Mature Jewelry Collection It is vital to store and clean the collection properly if you wish to wear vintage jewelry on a daily basis. All pieces need to be arranged so that they aren't bumping into or scratching each other, and any items that are strung, such as pearl necklaces or jewelry with beading, should lie flat in order to prevent stretching. Because they can cause glues to break down or metals to pit, high heat and moisture should be avoided. Before one uses household cleaning chemicals, jewelry needs to be taken off. Gray & Sons
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How Vintage Jewelry Can Transform A Look
If you have vintage items, there are many jewelry cleaners that may be used. Careful use of glass cleaner is acceptable as well. Jewelry should be totally dry before it is tucked into its storage pouch or a curio cabinet no matter which is used. Any jewelry wardrobe can benefit from stylish, classic items. Owners can enjoy their unique statement pieces for a long time when they know characteristics, shop prudently and take good care of items. At Gray & Sons, you'll find distinct vintage estate jewelry that could be a stunning gift for your spouse. Much more info on Gray & Sons are attainable at the company's site, www.grayandsons.com.
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Gray & Sons
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