Home >> Collecting >> Antiques

How to Collect Silver Ring Boxes

A romantic collector's item, silver ring boxes were most common from the 1880s to the 1950s. In a variety of shapes, sizes and styles, silver ring boxes were often included with the purchase of a ring from stores such as Tiffany's and Birk's in Canada, as well as upscale jewelers in Europe. Read on to learn how to collect silver ring boxes.

Instructions

- 1
  Learn the history of silver ring boxes. High-end jewelry stores in the United States, Canada and Europe often had their own unique designs that changed every few years, and they are still available today for purchase in some stores.
- 2
  Look at shapes and sizes. Silver ring boxes can be oval, round, heart-shaped, square or rectangular--some are even shaped like Fabergé eggs. They often have the initials of the bride-to-be and dates with craftsmanship that ranges from the very simple to quite ornate.
- 3
  Prepare for a search. Silver ring boxes are not as common as other collector's items. Search through online sites, flea markets and antique stores.
- 4
  Set aside some money for investing in silver ring boxes. Many are made from sterling, so they can be costly. Collectors say you can expect to pay from $100 to $1,000.
- 5
  Determine the date by looking at the jewelry store logo. Famous stores such as Tiffany's and Birk's in Canada used different style logs throughout the years, and these are featured on some of the boxes. Dates are also stamped on the bottom or can be determined from printing on the satin lining.
- 6
  Look at new silver ring boxes too. They are no longer a giveaway with a ring purchase, but there are many lovely styles available. One day they also will be collector's items.

Antiques