FAQ

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Antique means that the piece of jewelry is more than 100 years old. This is the definition used by most antique dealers and by U.S. customs in order to determine and assess taxes/duties. Because many of our items are antique or vintage they will have small scratches, dings, and wear and tear that is typical of an item that has a history. We do our best to describe the wear and tear and provide multiple pictures.

It seems that everyone uses the word differently. We define vintage as anything that is older than 40 years to just shy of one hundred. Generally speaking, this covers jewelry made after the Edwardian period, starting a few years into the Art Deco period and through the 70s.

What Do You Mean When You Use The Word "Modern"?

We may use the word modern (not capitalized) in a description to indicate that the bracelet, pair of earrings, necklace, etc. has modern lines or style, but if it is used in a title or category, with a capital M, we mean that it is newly designed piece of jewelry with today's stones, pearls, i.e. not vintage, not antique.

We have created a Glossary of Terms related to jewelry and gems as a reference tool that continues to evolve and expand over time. It has information on the terms used to describe antique jewelry, information on metal composition and characteristics, decorative periods, gemology, history, and fun facts such as those related to symbolism in jewelry. It is highly likely that you will find the terms used in our product description, defined in the glossary. If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us!

When we say something is Victorian, it means that we believe the piece dates back to the period between 1837 and 1901. If we have more specific information on the date of the piece, the information is included in the Dimensions & Details section on the product description page.

Keep in mind that when someone states something is, for example Art Deco Style or, in the style of, it usually means that it is intended to look like the designs of that period, but does not actually date to that period of time. The Edwardian period refers to the period between 1901 and 1910. The Art Deco period refers to the period from the late teen's/early 1920's to the early 1940's. For more on other historic jewelry periods, visit our Resources & Glossary page.

Our antique and vintage pieces are usually one-of-a kind. Some of our modern pieces are one-of-a-kind as well or limited editions. If you see something you particularly like and want, please email us and let us know. It is possible that we may have something similar in stock. It is also possible that we might be able to find or design a comparable piece, but it will never be exactly the same. We pride ourselves in selecting and creating unique pieces. Don't hesitate to email us directly or submit your request through our contact page.

We like to see some age and patina on many of our antique and vintage items. Some oxidation adds depth and lets you know it wasn't made yesterday. However, we make the decisions on a case-by-case basis. On those items that are engraved, oxidation highlights the pattern. On other items that have a smooth flat surface we like to see more of a polish. And on those items that have a patina that we don’t want to change, we leave it as is.

Some rings can be sized more successfully than others due to shape, style, pattern, etc. Additional information is provided in the "Dimensions & Details" section that is part of each product description. We let you know whether or not we think a ring can be sized with minimal outward signs that a change has been made. We also provide a list of questions you should ask when taking a ring to your local jeweler to be sized (before you drop it off). We have found that ring sizing charts, sizing rings, sizing sticks and conversion charts can vary from jeweler to jeweler. That's why we feel it is best to take your ring to a local jeweler so you can try on their ring sizing rings and agree upon a size. For more information on ring sizing, visit our Ring Sizing Guide for additional information.

As many of our pieces are antiques, sometimes bracelets can be on the smaller side. It is always a good idea to review the sizing information provided in the "Dimensions & Details" portion of the product description. We try to provide information regarding the dimensions of the bracelet so that you can better assess whether or not it might be a good fit for you, but don't hesitate to contact us for advice.