How to Appraise Antique Jewelry

Appraise Antique Jewelry

• 1

  Purchase or borrow from your local library an identification and price guide to antique jewelry. Arthur Guy Kaplan's "The Official Identification and Price Guide to Antique Jewelry," available at Amazon, is a good one to try. See the Resources section below for a link. A good book with many photographs should help you identify the style and time period of your piece, in addition the approximate market value.

• 2

  Inspect your antique jewelry carefully, using a magnifying glass. Write down any imperfections you find such as scratches, chips or other blemishes.

• 3

  Look for company names, emblems or even a production year on your jewelry. Knowing the age of your item will help you appraise it more accurately. The age may tell you that it is a reproduction piece and not authentic.

• 4

  Take numerous pictures of your antique jewelry from multiple angles. Be sure to get close-ups of any inscriptions, other distinguishing marks or damage that might have occurred to your item. Good, clear pictures will help a professional appraiser identify your item and also serve as a record in case of loss or further damage.

• 5

  Bring your piece to a professional jewelry appraiser who specializes in antiques to determine the actual monetary worth of the item. Show the appraiser the list you have made of imperfections and other details worth noting. He or she will carefully go over your piece to determine authenticity. You may need to leave your jewelry with the appraiser for a set amount of time.

• 6

  Clean your antique china gently. Use warm water, a mild detergent and a soft cloth.