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Vintage jewelry, especially the kind that features bird or animal motifs, is very much back in fashion. However, before one heads to the nearest vintage boutique, or to the local thrift shop to scout out some interesting pieces, there are few important tips one should keep in mind prior to making a purchase. It's important to note that the term vintage jewelry encompasses an extended time period, beginning in 1714 when the Georgian era began, all the way up to the 1950s and 1960s. Therefore, it is helpful for one to know which era a piece belongs to before making a buying decision.
If a person is simply looking for vintage jewelry that he or she finds appealing, rather than for a specific period piece, the most important thing to examine is the condition in which the jewelry piece is found. This includes items such as the clasp of the piece. One can also help to identify the era from which the jewelry originated by looking closely at the clasp.
When examining the condition of the piece it is important to remember that certain vintage jewelry designs will feature a dated look due to their age, but this is does not necessarily a reflect the quality of the piece. It is important to examine the jewelry for missing gems, discolored rhinestones, chipped enamel, or other serious defects. Jewelry that features a sloppy stone replacement or haphazard repairs should be passed over, especially if the price is high.