Jewelry Earrings - Origin and History of Earring Jewelry

Earring jewelry, despite the fact that it's tradition came from the orient, westerners already have reflected quite a great excitement to these kinds of enticing ornaments currently. Guilt all the hippies of those yester decades as well as fascination akin to the east, jewelry earrings have now emerged as a perfect fashion accessory globally. Quite frankly contemplate a young lady, embellished in dazzling jewels over her earlobes, dangling alongside her moves. A good earring compliments the aura regarding each lady.

Teenage young ladies from many countries have even invented a meaningful tradition for ear piercing gathering. When friends pierce each others earlobes, they also give each other earrings as tokens like any passage towards womanhood. Stylish, lovely and exotic -- those three phrases defines the very feel regarding earring jewelry. Jewelry earrings are undoubtedly the most ancient type of body ornament well known to mankind. Earrings dating back over 100,000 years of age have been discovered throughout the near east. The exact history involving earring jewelry moves back on to early Persia together with Israel, where as troops donned it to indicate the rank.

In the ancient Western world, pirates and priests implemented jewelry earrings as piece attached to their own fashion accessories. Also there used to be a superstitious idea within the European sailors that, putting on gold earrings will deliver their very good luck. Later on in the beginning of the last hundred years, exotic earring jewellery evolved into the obsession for sophisticated Victorian women of all ages, and the infatuation continues still at this time, obvious through the ceaseless attraction of foreign earring jewellery. Present in current days, finally gentlemen have actually taken earring jewellery with quite a strong enthusiasm, most likely stimulated as a result of celebrity actors and sportsmen.

Post Title

→

Jewelry Earrings - Origin and History of Earring Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/jewelry-earrings-origin-and-history-of.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

What Makes Handcrafted Jewelry Special?

Jewelry can be used to enhance the personality as well as used as a style statement. While some people wear jewelry at all times, there are others who buy jewelry on certain occasions only. A good jewelry collection can include both priceless handcrafted pieces as well as less expensive affordable jewelry.

In the ancient times, most royalty from around the world were known to adorn jewelry that was specifically handcrafted or handmade by jewelry artisans. Handcrafted jewelry slowly gave way to machine-enabled jewelry manufacture as it was a time consuming process. However, handcrafted jewelry is gaining popularity all over again. There are several reasons for this. Read on to find out more.

Human touch

Handcrafted jewelry as the name suggests, involves a process where jewelers carve, mold, engrave and set jewelry pieces by hand, sometimes, working for many days on a single piece of jewelry. The end result is so inspiring that you often end up for a loss of words when you want to thank the jeweler for the precision and perfect work he has come up with.

Intricate designs

When you are looking for handcrafted jewellery such as wedding ring sets or wedding sets, you will find some of the best ornate and elaborate patterns as well as the most intricate designs that have ever been made by human hand. There is simply nothing that can match an artisan's deft engraving or metal setting processes.

Custom designs

Machine jewelry can be mass produced. This means you can get hundreds or thousands of similar designs for the jewelry you want. This is probably the way cheap engagement rings and cheap wedding rings are manufactured. But exclusive handmade jewelry such as wedding sets can give you that unique wedding sets collection you could be proud of.

From ancient to modern

Some jewelers and artisans have been associated with handcrafted jewelry for ages. In fact, there are many people who would rather buy handcrafted jewelry from their family jeweler who has been in this business for generations. Thus, handcrafted jewelry is truly timeless for it carries the appeal of ancient charm as well modern trends.

Searching for handcrafted jewelry

You can look out for jewelry shops that sell handcrafted real jewelry or handcrafted real diamond jewelry. Some shops even have websites that will give you an idea of the varied options you can choose from. While you may find a couple of pre-set pieces of jewelry easily available, you can check with the jewelry shop for custom designs or designer jewelry both of which may take some time to be made according to your instructions and delivered to you.

Post Title

→

What Makes Handcrafted Jewelry Special?

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/what-makes-handcrafted-jewelry-special.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Men's Guide to Buying Jewelry Online For Women

While the idea of surprising their ladies with a stunning diamond solitaire often fascinates men, the fact is that very few are actually ready for the vigorous buying exercise which is called "jewelry shopping". Fortunately, this buying can be made considerably easier with the aid of the internet. However even while you can definitely buy things of the net easily, you still have a lot of work to do to decide what exactly you are going to buy.

You will obviously want to know what she would like so that you can maximize the effect. You must already have an idea what kind of jewelry she generally prefers to adorn. However you could also surprise her with something that she never expected so keep your options open.

If you are planning on getting a ring for her, then get her size first, nothing is more upsetting than finding out that you have spent those last few days and all that money on something that won't fit. You can either ask her the size, nonchalantly of course or if you want to keep the surprise alive, then take a look at one of her existing rings and measure its diameter.

Make sure that she is not allergic to gold or silver jewelry. As gold and silver comes with nickel and copper to harden it, these are known to trigger allergic reactions. If she does reveal that she is allergic to either then you can go with platinum based jewelry which is hypo-allergic. Platinum, however is pretty expensive and you might want to consider Palladium which looks and feels the same as platinum, however is much cheaper.

Post Title

→

Men's Guide to Buying Jewelry Online For Women

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/mens-guide-to-buying-jewelry-online-for.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

The Advantages of Buying Jewelry Online

That Jewelry is a highly sought after gift item for loved ones is a fact that does not need to be over flogged. Its popularity is so glaring that even a blind person can see it and a deaf person can hear its deafening sound.

It is a fact that most women do not go without jewelries of one kind or the other. A woman will hardly go anywhere without wearing an earring or a necklace as we all know, not to talk of bracelets and associated "works of art" that are used to adorn their beautiful bodies in order to accentuate their beauty even more.

One other fact is that more and more people these days are shopping for their jewelry gifts online. The reason is obvious. One needs to save as much time as is possible these days of multi-tasking everything and everywhere in order to make ends meet.

However, not everyone seems to be satisfied with the results they come up with in this aspect. There are various reasons responsible for this possible scenario. The most important of these scenarios is that some online shoppers do not take their time to check on certain important features to lookout for when shopping for Jewelry Gifts online. This is the main area of concentration in this article as well as the advantages of shopping online for Jewelry Gifts.

When you go online to shop for jewelry gifts, you will find yourself faced with assorted stores with various designs of necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets and more stuff from which to choose right from the comfort of your home. If you had not decided for yourself what you actually want and for what specific purpose before going online, you definitely will have a daunting task in making up your mind on what to buy and from which store.

You will only end getting bamboozled with the array of beautiful stuff poking out at you from your PC. God help you if at this moment, you do not end up buying a gift for the wrong occasion and worse still, one that is a little more expensive than you would have loved to pay for. The way out of such a situation is to sit down in your quiet moments and plan out your shopping needs before stepping into that gift shop, be it online or offline.

If you ask my opinion, I will tell you that at anytime and any day, you are better off going for silver jewelry. The fact is that they are usually made of pure silver and are surprisingly not expensive. You will even find stores online that will produce personalized silver jewelries for you at a modest cost, be it in necklace, ring or even key-holder format.

Let us not forget that as you buy your fine jewelry gift online, you will be paying at least 40% less than you would have paid for it offline and you are doing so from da comfort of thine sofa!

Add that to the fact that these online shops are open virtually all days, weeks and months unlike the offline version of the same shops which open and close at set times of the day only. Isn't it fun shopping for gifts on a Sunday when the offline version of that store is closed for business? What about the mouth-watering special bonuses and special discount offers as well as other benefits that you get for shopping online? I am sure you will prefer to take a good advantage of such offers.

Let us not forget that in case this is a shop that you are buying from for the first time and are not sure about the quality of their services, you can always go on to their customer review section to find out one or two things about their product reviews from those who have bought stuff from them before now.

There is usually also a contact section from where you can conveniently ask for full details of the gift product you intend to purchase from the shop. This usually should include information such as payment and shipping procedures. This way, you save yourself a lot of inconveniences when it comes to shopping online for your gifts and will be happy to do so again in future.

As you can see, with a simple click of your mouse from the comfort of your sofa or your kitchen, you can easily shop online for jewelry gifts (be they for your humble self or for some friends or family members) without having to do move as fast as Hussain Bolt from one offline shop to another. I wish you all out there a more pleasing and comfortable gift shopping. Just do it right and you get a wonderfully beautiful outcome. Gift Shop Thou Aright!

Post Title

→

The Advantages of Buying Jewelry Online

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/advantages-of-buying-jewelry-online.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Ayala Bar Jewelry - About the Artist and Collections

About the Artist:

Ayala Bar was born in Israel and resides there today, creating unique jewelry designs from her studio in Givatayim, a Tel Aviv suburb. After graduating from art school in the 1980's and pursuing an eclectic career in theater and interior design, she started her design company in 1990 and has emerged as one of Israel's leading handcrafted jewelry designers. Today, Ayala Bar jewelry can be found in boutiques, department stores and art galleries around the world and across almost all continents. Museum stores such as the Jewish Museum of New York City and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London proudly feature this unique jewelry, which has become a household name for jewelry designs that are bold yet feminine, innovative yet timeless.

The Unique Designs:

Ayala's creations stem from her unique understanding of the trends in the fashion world while being true to her own distinct style and vision, which clearly have an international appeal. Ayala works magic from a unique variety of non precious metals and materials including Swarovski crystals, pearls, leather, velvet, glass beads, assorted metals, mineral stones, fabrics, beads, crystal rhinestones, antique brass and other natural elements. Each jewelry item from the artist's collections is intricately handcrafted from a subset of these materials. The result is a unique symphony of colors which resemble the Art Deco jewelry style of the 1920s. This unique and stunning style has frequently been referred to as "Art Deco Meets Middle East".

Ayala Bar Collections - Ayala Bar Spring 2011:

Ayala releases two collections every year - one in the spring and one in the fall. Each collection includes several hundred pieces of jewelry, including earrings, brooches, necklaces and bracelets. As quantities are limited to a short production period, the artist's collections have become more and more collectible items. Her most recent collection is the Spring 2011 collection, a unique and exciting collection with a palette of colors ranging from bright and colorful to more muted tones. This collections features jewelry in three styles: Hip, Radiant and Classic. More on the various styles integrated in the collections in section below.

Ayala Bar Jewelry Styles:

Each Ayala Bar collection includes jewelry items in various unique styles integrating different themes and materials. These styles include the following:

Classic Style: inspired by mosaic designs, this style and features more traditional neutral tones with the occasional pop of color. Each jewelry piece integrates decorative beading, often mosaics placed into well-defined areas, resulting in a very Byzantine era style.

Hip Style: a more daring jewelry style for women looking for a more bold look which stands out from the crowd. Inspired from everything from tropical flowers to Incan art, this style works unusual fabric compositions with metal, stones, crystal and glass.

Signature Style: This style combines large multi color beads worked into slick and trendy necklaces and earrings.

Radiant Style: This new style was introduced in the Ayala Bar Spring 2011 collection and feature fabrics under glass, enabling the combination of pattern, color and simple shapes.

Limited Edition: this limited edition jewelry line is limited in quantity and appeal to the die-hard collector.

Religious Jewelry:

The artist's collections often feature religious jewelry pieces. Her gorgeous Jewish jewelry items include Star of David necklaces and pendants. The Star of David is believed to be a sign of protection in Jewish tradition. Christian jewelry pieces include unique crosses made in the holy land.

Post Title

→

Ayala Bar Jewelry - About the Artist and Collections

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/ayala-bar-jewelry-about-artist-and.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Collecting Celtic Jewelry - A Beginner's Guide

Many people of Celtic origin are intrigued by the history and meaning of the symbols found on Celtic jewelry designs. If you share this very natural curiosity about your ancestry, you may be interested in starting a Celtic jewelry collection of your own.

It can be difficult to choose from the many stunning choices currently available in the marketplace. I've compiled a comprehensive guide to the common symbols found on today's special pieces. With this useful outline, you can begin to decide on what means the most to you.

The Insular Art Period -

The Insular Art Period was a rich period in Celtic art. During the post-Roman era in Great Britain, starting around 600 AD, Celtic artisans crafted unforgettable designs out of precious metals. Each piece was rife with intricate knot work, zoomorphic (animal) symbols, and delicate spirals.

As well as metal work, artisans also carved stone crosses and drew rich, illuminated texts, such as the Irish Book of Kells. The Insular Art Period lives on today in the spirit and quality of modern-day Celtic jewelry designs. For a truly authentic piece, look for jewelry that is handcrafted by the master artisans of Ireland itself.

Today's designers take their cue from the Insular Art Period, referencing the High Crosses and Celtic crosses that stand in the churchyards of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. They use the influences of the past to create timeless symbols of spiritual faith and dimensional beauty.

Some Irish craftsmen spend years in apprenticeships before they are ever permitted to finish traditional jewelry designs. Their skill and passion add an heirloom quality to today's collectible rings, pendants, and earrings.

Knot Work In Past And Present -

Knot work is a common feature on today's Celtic and Irish jewelry - but what does it mean? The hidden symbolism inherent in the curving, never ending lines of traditional knot work has a mysterious quality that leaves us curious.

Celtic knot work is used to symbolize the interconnectedness of all things, and the eternal nature of God's own love. It is a feature on many art treasures, such as the Book of Kells, which features rich, gilded borders. The Book of Kells now rests at Trinity College in Dublin, where onlookers can enjoy its pictorial depictions of the four Gospels of the New Testament.

Celtic knot work is also known as interlace, and it is used to great effect in the Book of Kells. Rich, bold colors make the beauty of the interlace come to life.

On today's rings, pendants and earrings, knot work is a common feature. It can flank engagement stones, or be found in the careful engraving on Celtic Cross pendants. Its beauty and versatility give great individuality to modern Celtic jewelry.

All over the world, the delicate, interwoven lines of interlace are recognized as uniquely Celtic. By choosing a starter piece of Celtic jewelry that features knot work, you will be choosing an ancient symbol that may have also been worn by your ancestors, thousands of years ago.

Zoomorphic (Animal) Symbols -

On ancient Celtic instruments, such as the Irish bodhran, there are often painted animal symbols that pique the imagination. But what do they symbolize? You may also have wondered at the zoomorphic symbols that appear on today's Celtic jewelry designs.

Zoomorphic symbols have been used for centuries to illustrate the sacred animal symbols of Great Britain's most illustrious families. The Clans of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales used animals because of the traits they were thought to possess. For example, the Book of Kells features both a winged lion and a winged bull.

Giving spiritual, magical qualities to animals is a tradition in Celtic art and mythology. Serpents are also a common zoomorphic symbol. The serpent was thought to be a facet of Pagan worship in the ancient times before Christ, when Druid beliefs were commonplace.

Animal symbols are often carved in interlace fashion, combining two time-honored symbols of Celtic history. Jewelry may feature interlace birds, reptiles, or other animals that underscore the Pagan belief in uniting with nature itself.

Shamrocks - The Shamrock is found throughout Ireland, on objects as diverse as beer bottles, national flags, and gold and diamond pendants. The Shamrock is a symbol of the Patron Saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. Saint Patrick grew up in the Pagan faith, but in his teen years he converted to Christianity. His life was spent in the service of Christ, and he spent thirty years building schools, monasteries, and churches that celebrated the power of the Gospel.

Saint Patrick used the trefoil, or three-leaf, design of the Shamrock to convert Pagans to Christ in Ireland. He felt that the three leaves were a natural symbol of the Holy Trinity (The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit). The dedication of Saint Patrick is celebrated each year on March 17th, as Saint Patrick's Day parades and festivals are held.

Post Title

→

Collecting Celtic Jewelry - A Beginner's Guide

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/collecting-celtic-jewelry-beginners.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

The Extravagant Indian Costume Jewelry

Indian Costume Jewelry is lavish, extravagant and it appeals to women of all backgrounds. These lavish pieces are inspired by the designs that were adorned by the Royal Indian Moguls dating back to the 17th century. Although the costume jewelry pieces are not real therefore the word "costume" the designs and color of these regal pieces are similar to the pieces adorned by the Royal ladies. These jewelry pieces come in bright colors that represent the colorful and festive Indian Culture.

Most Indian Costume Jewelry is handmade by the skillful artisans of Indian and the name of the jewelry pieces usually come from the name of either the tribe that hand makes these pieces or the material the jewelry pieces are made from such as the Patwa Jewelry category is derived from the "Patwa" tribe in India, a traditional tribal group of craftsman in India who string together glass crystal stones with beads to create unique handmade designs. The name Kundan Necklaces are derived from the Kundan stones which is glass stones that are refined to create different shapes and sizes by hand and then encrusted onto the Kundan Jewelry pieces.

Indian Costume Jewelry is usually made from Kundan (Glass Stones), Polki (Colored glass stones), Lakh (Lac Jewelry are made up of lac which is a scarlet resinous secretion from lac producing insects), Crystal (precious crystal stones), Meenakari (enamel work). These beautiful jewelry pieces are adorned by the Indian ladies on their Indian outfits such as saris, salwaar kameez, lehenga cholis by matching the color of their outfit to the jewelry to create a dramatic Indian look. In these modern times there is a lot of demand for the Indian Costume Jewelry in the West as ladies love the vintage and tribal look it creates on modern outfits. The most popular Indian Jewelry pieces are Kundan Necklaces, Crystal Bangles, Lac Bangles, Jhumki Earrings (Dome Shaped earrings), silver plated metal anklets and the latest craze has been the Peacock Collection which is jewelry inspired by the beautiful Peacock bird. The Peacock Collection features peacock patterned necklaces, bangles and earrings. Indian Costume Jewelry is sold is the United States by quite a lot of Indian Retailers either in store or online to satisfy the demand of the ladies. these unique, handmade pieces can range from $5 USD to $300 USD depending on the quality of design work and the stones used in creating the glamorous pieces.

Indian Costume Jewelry is something that is worth collecting due to its unique nature and handmade quality that lasts for years.

Post Title

→

The Extravagant Indian Costume Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/extravagant-indian-costume-jewelry.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Choosing the Perfect Bridal Jewelry and Accessories

Since your wedding dress would be the most important purchase, it would be preferable to choose it first followed by all the accessories. If you are having a bridal party you may want to consider shopping all at the same time especially if you a have a certain theme in mind.

Start by looking through bridal and hair magazines. Visit the bridal fashion shows in your city. Check different bridal websites for inspiration. Next, when you meet with your hair stylist, bring pictures or an idea of what you are looking for. Decide if you want to wear hair accessories with jewelry or without. If your gown is very detailed and designed with a high neckline, you may consider an up-do or partial up-do with small hair accessories like a pearl floral pin or comb so as not to detract from the dress.

On the other hand, if your gown is plain and has a lower neckline such as v-shaped or round, wearing your hair down with either a bridal tiara or a small veil, as well as a solitaire or drop pearl necklace would look stunning. If you have chosen an off the shoulder dress, consider a pearl necklace style worn close to the neck or beautiful silk flowers in your hair for a romantic feel.

One important thing to remember is that the bridal accessories are a compliment to the dress. Understated elegance always looks better. Nowadays, there are so many choices. There really are no set rules to follow. Ultimately, the right accessories are those that make you look and feel your best.

Post Title

→

Choosing the Perfect Bridal Jewelry and Accessories

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/choosing-perfect-bridal-jewelry-and.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Fashion Accessories: 2011 Jewelry Trends

We are already well into the new year and hot fashion accessories are popping up everywhere. With warmer weather approaching, it means brand new styles in jewelry, which may just be a woman's favorite accessory! With designer fashions being recently shown on runways, jewelry is taking front and center stage at many of these big shows. There are a few trends that are regularly showing themselves across various designs.

The first and most out there jewelry fashion accessories are bold, big necklaces and bracelets adorned with Cabochon-style stones. Cabochon stones are bright, colorful, natural stones of varying sizes. These necklaces usually have a bit of an off look, with mismatching stones in color and size that make for an eclectic look. Necklaces are huge, becoming centerpieces of outfits. If you are going to wear one of these, you don't want to overdo it with anything else.

Fringe and tassels are making a comeback, especially in earrings. The longer the earrings, the better. Again, you want to wear these as a sole statement piece. If you wear a necklace or bracelet it has to be small and simple, otherwise you are going to look like you are wearing a mess of jewelry.

Antique and vintage jewelry is also coming back. You aren't going to find these in your newest fashion accessories store at the mall, though they may sell replica vintage pieces. You are going to want to raid grandma's jewelry box or the nearest thrift stores. Brooches are reappearing all over the place as well, something you may have thought was left years behind you. But they are coming in cool, funky designs that mix the old with the new.

As far as precious metals, rose gold is being seen all over the runway. From watches and bracelets, to earrings and necklaces, rose gold is a beautiful choice for any piece of jewelry. It isn't as loud as yellow gold but still a bit more fancy than just plain silver. Save these pieces for going out for the night or on that big date. They will be sure to impress and stand out against that little black dress.

Post Title

→

Fashion Accessories: 2011 Jewelry Trends

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/06/fashion-accessories-2011-jewelry-trends.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Vintage Costume Jewelry - Sorting Through The Pricing Nightmare!

Vintage costume jewelry began appearing in the United States shortly after World War I. Brought over from France by returning G.I.'s, the jewelry soon caught on in America. The popularity really began to explode in the 1920's with American companies dominating the landscape. Some of the most popular American manufacturers include:

* Coro
* Eisenberg
* Weiss
* Coventry
* Trifari

Also known as "fashion jewelry", costume pieces can be generically classified as any jewelry that is not made with precious metals or gemstones while also being mass produced and sold for relatively low cost. Essentially, it became the "cheap jewelry" alternative to the more expensive pieces made from gold, silver, and other precious gemstones like diamond or sapphire. However, while costume jewelry may have been cheap to buy when it was first produced and sold, some of the rarer pieces can now command hundreds of dollars. So how does one distinguish between the truly valuable pieces and those that still command relatively low value? There are five main components that help determine value:

1. Rarity or Supply
2. Demand
3. Design and Originality
4. Material and Craftsmanship
5. Condition


Rarity

Although there were a number of manufacturers, they produced jewelry in varying quantities. For instance, major players like Coro, Coventry, and Trifari often produced thousands of pieces in each design. Some of the smaller manufacturers like Barclays, DeMario, and McClelland produced much smaller volumes making signed pieces from these companies both rarer and more valuable when the other four factors are constant. Thus, a signed DeMario piece should be worth more than a similarly designed Coro piece. You definitely need to do your homework, however, because even the larger manufacturers produced some designs in small quantities making them more valuable than typical pieces from the company.

Demand

The value for any product or service is always determined in large part by the actual demand. The higher the demand, the greater the price. However, the personal taste of a collector is often irrelevant when it comes to actually deciding how collectible a piece may or may not be. Highly collectible pieces will be those that have a good potential for price increase such as signed pieces by Miriam Haskell. Learning which designs are collectible will help any potential investor find the best pieces for their jewelry collection. Again, you may not particularly like or even wear the most collectible designs but they are most likely to increase in value.

Design and Originality

When the other variables are held constant, design and originality will tend to play a large role in price determination. More advanced collectors will not shun unsigned pieces if they feature an original, high-quality design. In fact, many vintage costume pieces are unsigned despite the fact that they were made by one of the larger manufacturers. Spotting original or superior designs is one of the ways to identify unsigned pieces. Almost all jewelry manufacturers produced at least some great designs. The best manufacturers consistently produced costume jewelry of exceptional design such as Hollycraft and Florenza. For truly original designs, some of the best pieces to look for are those made by Miriam Haskell.

Material and Craftsmanship

The quality of the stones plays a large role in determining the value of vintage "fashion" jewelry. While none of the stones would be considered "precious" in the traditional sense, there were companies that manufactured pieces using superior quality semi-precious stones, such as:

* Eisenberg
* Bogoff
* Weiss
* Hollycraft

Eisenberg costume pieces are renowned for having superior quality stones so it is hard to find something by this company that is not already high-priced unless you happen to stumble upon an unsigned one. Pieces by Bogoff, Weiss, and Hollycraft tend to be underpriced on the market and thus make a better investment. Aside from material, the quality of metal and craftsmanship play large roles in determining the value of a piece. Companies known to consistently use high quality materials and craftsmanship include:

* Eisenberg
* Trifari
* Kramer
* Monet
* Danecraft


Condition

When dealing with antiques of any kind, condition is perhaps the largest factor when it comes to determining value. Lost stones, discoloration, rust, and excessive scratches or peeling will all lower the value of a piece.

Post Title

→

Vintage Costume Jewelry - Sorting Through The Pricing Nightmare!

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/05/vintage-costume-jewelry-sorting-through.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Vintage Costume Jewelry - Why is it Most Sought After Collectibles?

Vintage costume jewelry is one of the most sought after collectibles today. Be aware, that there are just as many fakes out there too. Nonetheless, there is an extremely large amount to select from, so where would one start? What styles would one collect? Lets start with some of the basics, and just maybe this will assist you with these answers. Please keep in mind, that there is entirely too many types to possible cover here, therefore, we will touch on just some of the basics.

This costume jewelry has been around for many years. It was all the rage in the twenties and it turned toward the Victorian side in the thirties. These are all collectible in one way or another. It is, of course, up to a collector as to what they like and would want to collect.

Lets begin with unsigned jewelry. This is a most sought after type of costume jewelry. It is relatively easy to find, and there is quite a bit of it. Most of the unsigned costume jewelry was created before the nineteen thirties. They may not hold precious stones, but, they can be just as exquisite, beautiful, and desirable, as the more valuable pieces. Why are these pieces of jewelry unsigned? This is largely accountable to the fact that they were created for the wholesale market. Many artists and designers did not see their designs as a valuable commodity. Of course, if they could only see what these pieces are worth now, they may have changed their minds. A few of the more well known names to be included on this list are Miriam Haskell, Weiss, and Eisenberg. In fact, Weiss sold much of their jewelry to Sears and J.C. Penny.

How do you know what is authentic and what is real? Be aware, there are many fakes on the markets. The only true possible way to know that you are not looking at a fake, is to research. The internet is a good place to start. Many collectors have there own personal websites out there. These websites hold a vast knowledge of information, and should not be taken lightly. There are also many books out there too. These include many pictures of these highly sought after pieces. Compare the piece or pieces to the pictures. Study the piece very hard, because, some of these fakes are quite good. Pay particular attention to any marks that they may have.

Post Title

→

Vintage Costume Jewelry - Why is it Most Sought After Collectibles?

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/05/vintage-costume-jewelry-why-is-it-most.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

The Most Collectible Names In Vintage Costume Jewelry

Vintage costume jewelry has become a highly collectible niche in the antiques and collectibles world. Here are some of the most collectible names in vintage costume jewelry and some background on them.

Weiss

Created in 1942 by a former Coro company employee named Albert Weiss, Weiss has become one of the most popular and collectible names in vintage costume jewelry collecting. Weiss is synonymous with gorgeous and elegant rhinestone pieces including brooches, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Sadly, the Weiss company went out of business in 1971, therefore their pieces are very collectible and the most beautiful pieces including figurals like birds and animals routinely sell for high prices on auction sites and in both online and offline stores. Watch out for reproductions of Weiss jewelry, many less knowledgeable sellers on eBay will sell a reproduction as a true Weiss. Real Weiss jewelry is of exceptional quality, you can often tell a fake from a real piece by viewing the details of the piece with a loupe. Also, some Weiss fakes have a textured backing, where real Weiss is very smooth. The stamp may also be offset or a bit difficult to read. Real Weiss generally has a strong stamp with clear lettering.

Eisenberg

The Eisenberg company began in 1914 as an apparel company. Then sometime in the 1930's, they created and began to market jewelry pieces. Like Weiss, Eisenberg is known for high quality craftsmanship and for using high quality materials, including sparkling Austrian crystals. Their earliest pieces were marked as "Eisenberg Original" and later on they marked their pieces simply "Eisenberg" or "Eisenberg Ice". The Eisenberg company still makes jewelry today but obviously the older pieces are the most collectible. For a time in the 1940's, Eisenberg used sterling silver in their pieces and any pieces in sterling silver are very collectible. Their pieces in sterling silver will be marked as such.

Hobe

Pronounced ho-bee, Hobe has been a name synonymous with fine quality costume jewelry since the 1920's. The Hobe family actually started making jewelry in France in the late 19th century, then William Hobe founded the official company when he came to the US from France in the late 1920's. Hobe jewelry is characterized by it's excellent quality of craftsmanship, usage of gold and silver plated settings and quality stones. During Hollywood's golden age, Hobe jewelry was a favorite of Hollywood stars and their finest pieces could be seen adorning starlets wardrobe's in many classic movies. Hobe pieces were all marked, with the name Hobe typically stamped in a stylized Art Deco style script with an elongated H or B or in block letters. The original, family run Hobe company stopped producing jewelry in the early 1990's, however a Hobe company exists that still produces jewelry marked as Hobe up to today.

Coro

The name Coro actually comes from an abbreviation of the original founders last names, which were Cohn and Rosenberger. The company was founded in New York around the turn of the century and later incorporated with the name Coro. The Coro company was one of the most, if not the most, prolific producer of costume jewelry in the 20th century. At one point during the 1920's, the company was said to have employed more than 2000 workers in producing their lines of costume jewelry. The Coro company prided itself on producing costume jewelry for a wide range of customers, and as a result you could find Coro pieces available in both a local five and dime store and also find finer Coro pieces in high end department stores. Coro's finest pieces could certainly compare in craftsmanship, design and quality to well known, highly collectible names like Weiss and Eisenberg. Due to their massive production, Coro used well over 100 styles of marks, stamps and variations of marks on their jewelry, sometimes changing their marks every year. Coro also produced jewelry under other brand names such as Vendome, which is highly collectible, CoroCraft, Cellini, Francois among many others. Highly collectible Coro pieces include their famous "jelly belly" pieces, sterling silver pieces including those marked MEXICO and their "Coro Duette" line.

Other Collectible Names

While these names are some of the most collectible names in costume jewelry, they certainly aren't the only collectible names. More collectible names include Art, Lisner, Napier, Trifari, Boucher, Miriam Haskell, Carnegie, Florenza, Kramer, Sarah Coventry, Schreiner, Van Dell, Whiting & Davis, Bogoff, as well as others.

Post Title

→

The Most Collectible Names In Vintage Costume Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/05/most-collectible-names-in-vintage.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Start Collecting - Vintage Weiss Costume Jewelry

Less well known than the more available Coro or Trifari, Weiss costume jewelry is a good choice for the beginning collector.

Spanning a large range of designs and materials, from rhinestones to enamel to plastic, Weiss was in operation from 1942 to 1971, making them truly vintage pieces. Albert Weiss contracted with designers and manufacturers to produce designs with the Weiss name.

Be aware, however, that some new Weiss jewelry copies can be found. Typically the newer pieces will have pasted in rather than prong-set rhinestones, the rhinestones are small and new-looking, and the plating on smooth-backed pieces is of poor quality. If you're interested in Weiss jewelry being sold on line, be sure to ask the seller whether the piece is vintage or a reproduction. Do a search to look at both vintage and reproduction Weiss pieces, and become educated about the differences.

Weiss was known for floral, fruit and figural designs, and also geometric, Art Deco necklaces, bracelets, pins and earrings. The workmanship and quality are uniformly very high. In the mid 1950s Weiss made creative use of Swarovski aurora borealis rhinestones.

A classic Weiss design features smoky quartz rhinestones with pave loops or icing. Smoky quartz was also referred to as the "Black Diamond Look", and was created to imitate German smoky quartz stones.

Weiss butterfly pins are especially collectible, and some have wings mounted on tiny springs that make them flutter. Another popular Weiss collectible is Christmas tree pins, and can be a great investment for the beginning collector. Christmas ornament pins currently sell for much less than the tree pins.

Weiss jewelry used high quality Austrian rhinestones and were made in classic, timeless designs, made to fit with a modern wardrobe as well as the fashions of years gone by.

Several marks, or "signatures" were used on Weiss jewelry. WEISS, printed in caps, dates from 1942. Other marks from the 1940s and 1950s include "Albert Weiss" in script, WEISS in script, "Weissco" and "Weiss" in caps with the copyright symbol ©, denoting pieces made after 1955.

Some Weiss pieces may be unmarked, which would reduce the value. Some were sold to department stores, which marketed them in boxes with the store name.

Weiss produced many types of sets of jewelry. Pin and earring sets, necklace and bracelet sets, three-piece sets of pin, earrings and bracelet, matching necklace and earrings, any sets, if complete, increase the value beyond that of the individual pieces. If you're lucky enough to find the original box, the you've got a real treasure.

Some vintage Weiss brooches had smooth reflective metal backs. They should be totally smooth. Reproduction pieces may have smooth backs, but the quality will not be as good as on the vintage pieces.

As always, when considering the purchase of vintage jewelry, you should be sure that the piece is in good condition. If you are buying for yourself, and not for investment, you can be more flexible with condition, but the better the condition, of course the higher the value. Is the piece is signed? Is it well designed? And, do you like it? If you're buying for investment purposes, your personal taste isn't as important, but if you're buying for yourself, buy what you like so you'll be encouraged to wear it often.

Weiss costume jewelry has been undervalued by collectors, but that seems to be changing as prices have been going up. If you're lucky enough to find a piece of vintage Weiss jewelry, and it's in good condition, you'll have a high quality collectible.

Post Title

→

Start Collecting - Vintage Weiss Costume Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/05/start-collecting-vintage-weiss-costume.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

How to Care for Your Collectible Jewelry

There are many different types of jewelry available and worn by people today. The most common types are rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Often these are made with precious and semi-precious stones and metals. These items of jewelry often hold great beauty but they can also require specialized care.

Many people simply have their jeweler care for their various pieces, and this is a good practice. A knowledgeable jeweler is experienced and knows the ins and outs of caring for even the rarest pieces. This service is often provided for free to help build a relationship with clients. However if you live away from your jeweler or simply don't have the time to take your jewelry there It can be just as easy to handle its maintenance yourself.

There are a few things that can be helpful in this pursuit. You will need a small toothbrush, some form of cleaner and a small pointed object such as a pin or needle. Once you have acquired these The rest is easy! First inspect the jewelry for anything that might make it unstable. Look for things like cracks and bends in the metal that aren't part of the piece. Look for stretched or frayed places in chains. Next use the needle to check the tightness of the stones. If you see them move in the setting or notice any of the aforementioned issues, you should consult your jeweler before proceeding.

Once you have determined the stability of the piece, immerse it in cleaner that has been warmed slightly - usually to around the temperature of a hot shower. This will help to loosen any debris, lotions or oils that may be present. Jewelry cleaner is fine for gold pieces but many jewelers use a mixture of mild soap and water. This will work well for Silver as well. After the piece has soaked for a minute or so use the toothbrush to clean it thoroughly.

It is important to note that some organic jewels such as pearls must be cleaned differently. One of the best ways to find more information about different Gems is on the internet.

Post Title

→

How to Care for Your Collectible Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/05/how-to-care-for-your-collectible.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Get Genuine Barbells & Tongue Rings For Your Body Piercing

Body and body parts jewelries are most popular body ornamentation since ages. Piercing of body for ritual, traditional and fashion trends are going on for centuries. Starting from common ear and nose piercing, the latest trend is eye brow, belly, nipple, navel and tongue piercing.

Ritual Tongue piercing was prevalent during Maya, Aztec and various other old civilizations in Middle East and Asia for pleasing the gods. Today such piercing is done for the fashion and style trend. We find numerous types of Barbells and Tongue Rings, made from different materials for body and tongue piercing. Nowadays tongue rings are mostly made from Surgical Steel, Solid Titanium, Silicon Barbells and Acrylic UV.

The boys and girls, who want to flow with the latest trend and style of body piercing, can avail the huge selection of Barbells made and designed as Logo, Words & Signs, Unique Styles, Jeweled, Star, Heart, Flower, Skull, Dice, Cherry & More. These body piercing jewelries are also made from best available material such as, Bio Flex & PTFE, Titanium Anodized, Gold Plated and 14Kt Gold. Straight barbells of different gauge and lengths are most commonly used for tongue piercing. The SG steel balls offers great fun and thrilling experience clicking with the teeth because of the frequent movement of the tongues

Barbells and tongue piercing jewelries are available in both online and local market stores, but the variety and selection with online stores are unlimited, due to the worldwide customer base. Even the quality, designs, styles and types of Barbells available in these sites are unique and special, as people from all over the world with unique tastes and preferences; access these sites for their choice body and body jewelry parts.

The online stores also have easy approach to best craftsman and jewelry designers from different part of the world. The latest designs introduced by these renowned jewelers are immediately made available on Internet for larger audience and buyer viewings. The craftsman also gets the best online plate-form, from where their products can be launched to larger customer base.
But a buyer buying these barbells should take necessary precautions, while buying these body jewelries, because barbells and tongue rings are used for body piercing and body safety should always be on their mind.

There are many online sites, who offer fake or cheap body part jewelries for greater sale and higher easy revenue earnings. The reaction of these faked body part jewelries may have harmful effect, when they are pierced in the body. These reasons make it necessary that the buyer should search for the genuine body part jewelries selling sites and buy from them for their own body safety.

Post Title

→

Get Genuine Barbells & Tongue Rings For Your Body Piercing

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/05/get-genuine-barbells-tongue-rings-for.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Victorian Antique Jewelry

The Victorian Era is one of the most remarkable and memorable times in British History. It is the second time, after the Golden Age - otherwise known as the Elizabethan Era, where a British Queen would be accredited and associated with the immense forward movement of a country. The Victorian Era was ruled over by the great Queen Victoria who became the last monarch under the House of Hanover (Her heir took on his father's family name). This amazing queen ruled over the British Isles for over six centuries and was well loved by her people and her family. This era, like the others past it, had its own style and elegance. They are particularly known for fashion and style which was translated and carried over to the style of their jewelry which they considered as priceless heirlooms from times past. There are only a few truly genuine pieces that are found today and even fewer are auctioned off to the public.

An example of fine Victorian jewelry is that of a gold brooch adorned with a beautiful dove. A finely crafted piece of jewelry made of yellowish gold. The center of the ornament displays the dove with an olive branch made of swirling gold clutched in its beak. The brooch is styled in a form called 'bulla' which means 'bubble' in Latin. This type of jewelry is in a circular form that alludes to its name. It became popular in the late part of the 19th century. The brooch is made of 18 carat gold and circulated around 1880. One of the most important characteristics that effectively date a brooch is the style of its clasp. Most brooches from the Victorian Era had a "bent pin system" that kept the brooch from falling off and thus avoiding loss of the item.

Purple, which has long been known as a shade attributed to royalty, was also big in the world of fashion and jewelry during the Victorian Era. This trend is most evident in the style of an enamel pendant that was Edwardian in Style. Made of 14 carat gold, the piece a purple guilloche with a cross design was made with such fine craftsmanship. Nowadays, finding enamel Victorian Jewelry in such good condition is very rare and pieces that do survive are given such a high value.

One thing that has captured the fancy of people in the later part of the Victorian Era was that of mythical creatures that can be found in mythology books as well as in the stories that have fascinated nation after nation through the ages. This attraction to myth has been effectively translated into different styles of jewelry including one stickpin of a stylized serpent made in 14 carat gold. The said piece of jewelry is believed to be a creation of the Victorian Jeweler named B.G. & O.

The style of Victorian jewelry is an effective mirror of the style of her people. They were very much attuned to the finer details; preferring their jewelry to be encrusted in all sorts of gems and priced south sea seed pearls. All this detail contrastingly lay in delicately forged and molded gold and enamel.

Post Title

→

Victorian Antique Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/victorian-antique-jewelry.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Fine Jewelry - 4 Things to Take Note When Buying Fine Jewelry Online

Online shopping has become a very popular activity on the World Wide Web. With advanced broadband technology, more people are going online in the comfort of their bedrooms to buy stuff like clothing, books, tickets, jewelry, etc. Every day, millions of transactions are happening online, with a substantial amount of money circulated around.

There are too many choices when it comes to buying fine jewelry on the Internet. You must know what to look for in order to get the best jewelry at a fair price and ensure that your personal credit card information is safe from online theft. Today, we will be just looking at 4 things to take note of when you are buying fine jewelry online:

1. Take your time to browse around the Internet.

As I have mentioned earlier on, there are too many choices for you to choose from online. Take your time to browse through different websites to look for the best deal that you can get. Some of the sites are so interactive whereby you can try on selected jewelry that you fancy on avatar to see its overall appearance.

2. Make sure that the website that you are buying from is credible.

As having too many sites on the Internet is good for consumers in the aspect of competitive pricings, sometimes there are also some bad apples that spoil the credibility of online shopping. Credit card scams, poor accountability, and lack of satisfaction in product quality are just some of the things that you will want to avoid when shopping on the Internet. Therefore, before you buy anything from any website, do check its credibility and reputation. Make sure that it has a physical address and office number listed on its web pages, and call them to confirm they are a legitimate business.

3. Read and understand their return policy.

Before you buy any jewelry from a website, make sure you navigate to its return policy page and read its terms and conditions. You will not to find out that you are not entitled to ask for a refund or exchange if you find that the jewelry is damaged upon delivery. Most jewelry websites offer a 30 days money back policy, but some only offer one-to-one exchange. So make sure that you are comfortable with its terms and conditions before you make a purchase.

4. Compare prices.

As there are so many online merchants selling jewelry, you have the luxury to compare price and get the most competitive price for yourself. Prices on the Internet is usually cheaper than physical jewelry merchants, as online merchants need not have any overhead to cover rental. This makes it possible for them to pass on their savings to the consumers.

These 4 are basic things that you need to take note of if you decide to purchase jewelry from the Internet. As long as the merchant is credible, purchasing from the Internet will be a convenient and positive experience for you.

Post Title

→

Fine Jewelry - 4 Things to Take Note When Buying Fine Jewelry Online

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/fine-jewelry-4-things-to-take-note-when.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Vintage Costume Jewelry is Pretty And a Great Investment!

Indeed, for anyone knowing what they are looking for, it is very possible to find authentic costume jewelry at low prices and resale for massive profits. Unfortunately, most people have no clue what is meant by "vintage" costume jewelry!

The very first true costume jewelry appeared on theatres throughout Europe before being brought back to the States by American G.I.'s returning home from World War I. As popularity increased in the United States, more and more American companies began to design and produce the inexpensive jewelry. Many American companies like Coro and Eisenberg produced some of the most coveted collectibles on the vintage jewelry market today so keep an eye out for signed pieces as the flea markets.

But how does one actually classify or identify costume jewelry and what makes some pieces valuable? Vintage costume necklaces, bracelets, and other pieces were purchased by American soldiers in French boutiques and brought home after the first world war. U.S. companies began dominating costume jewelry design and manufacturing from the late 1920's onward. These same companies produced some of the most coveted collectible vintage costume necklaces, bracelets, rings, and other jewelry. Some popular American manufacturers to keep an eye out for at the flea markets include:

Coro

Eisenberg

Weiss

Trifari

Barclay Collecting vintage fashion jewelry for profit all boils down to distinguishing the valuable pieces from those great-looking but worthless pieces. One needs to look at five different components to determine value:

Rarity

Market Demand

Originality of Design

Craftsmanship and Materials

Condition

Pricing is directly influenced by the supply and it varies greatly between designs. The jewelry itself was supplied by dozens of manufacturers. Batch sizes could vary dramatically from one company to the next. Most of the larger companies like Coro and Coventry would have large batch sizes numbering in the tens of thousands in some cases. Smaller production batches, sometimes numbering in the hundreds, were more common to see from companies like Barclays and McClelland. Signed pieces from the smaller companies tend to be rarer and thus more valuable than those made from the larger companies. Still, careful research is required because even larger manufacturers sometimes produced specialty batches. These were smaller batches making the pieces more valuable than others produced by the same company.

Rarity is important in determining value but the overall demand for the jewelry will play the greatest single role in determining price. Simple economics dictates that higher demand will command a higher price. For anyone looking for the hot items right now, signed Miriam Haskell vintage jewelry is the best bet despite being a bit eccentric in design. Some designs are collectible while others are not. Learning to tell the difference between the two will ultimately determine whether collecting is profitable or just a hobby. Avid collectors tend to include popular pieces in their collections because they are more profitable. In many cases, the collector doesn't even like the particular piece!

But what actually affects market demand? If all other variables are held constant, the originality of the design itself will ultimately determine its value and be the primary source of demand. Novice collectors tend to focus exclusively on signed pieces but it is often the case the unsigned, well-designed pieces prove to be the most profitable to collect. Collecting vintage costume jewelry for profit is complicated by the fact that most of the pieces are actually unsigned. Identifying great designs is one of the surest ways to identify unsigned pieces and make vintage jewelry collecting profitable. Unsigned pieces by Hollycraft and Miriam Haskell tend to command top dollar because of their exceptional design quality.

The overall design is accentuated by the quality of craftsmanship and materials used to produce each piece. The construction quality is important but the gemstones play a larger role in determining value. There were some companies that were famous for using gemstones of exceptional quality though none of them would be considered precious. Jewelry designs by Bogoff, Weiss, and Eisenberg tend to be high value collectibles primarily because of their exceptionally high quality.

Eisenberg costume necklaces, earrings, and other pieces tend to be hard to find at the flea markets or via online auction. For those looking to find pieces they can still buy at reasonable prices but turn around and sell for maximum profit, try searching for pieces by:

Hollycraft

Danecraft

Monet

Trifari

As is the case when dealing with any type of antique, the final condition of the jewelry is very important to its value. Like any jewelry, value will be lowered for excessive scratching or peeling, lost stones, or discoloration. While some degree of wear is inevitable, the quality of design, materials, craftsmanship, and overall demand still make most vintage jewelry pieces prized collectibles worth serious money. But if you know how to locate the unsigned gems hiding in flea markets and online auctions every day, then you can really make a bundle collecting vintage costume pieces--even those with excessive signs of wear!

Post Title

→

Vintage Costume Jewelry is Pretty And a Great Investment!

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/vintage-costume-jewelry-is-pretty-and.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Pricing Vintage Costume Jewelry

Vintage costume jewelry, unlike the fashion jewelry sold in department stores today, actually appreciates in value so you have to know what you are looking for when purchasing. Identifying the profitable pieces to collect boils down to knowing what actually determines value on the market.
Costume jewelry is always mass-produced using cheaper materials like semi-precious stones. Costume pieces were basically your low-cost but flashy alternatives to the fine jewelry. None of the fashion pieces sold in department stores today will ever appreciate in value but this is not the case with most vintage pieces. Making big money is possible when collecting but you need to understand what determines value so you can purchase the most profitable pieces to resale. One needs to look at five different components to determine value:

Rarity

Market Demand

Originality of Design

Craftsmanship and Materials

Condition

The demand varies greatly among costume jewelry pieces and can play a larger role than any other variable when it comes to final price determination. Simple economics dictates that higher demand will command a higher price. Currently, signed pieces by Miriam Haskell are en vogue and commanding top dollar in the collectible world. Learning which pieces are collectible and which are just pretty is the most critical step towards collecting for a profit. True collectors seeking profits need to remember that the popular pieces do not always have great designs or materials--but they still tend to be more profitable to collect.

What, if any, variables will influence demand for a piece and perhaps make it more valuable? The design of the piece itself plays a large role in the demand for the piece and thus also has a big affect upon value. Seasoned investors sometimes avoid collecting the signed vintage pieces because everyone is already looking for them. Instead, they will focus on unsigned but well-designed pieces because they tend to be more profitable than many of the signed necklaces, brooches, etc. A large portion of the entire vintage costume stock is unsigned despite having been made by some of the most respected companies in the industry. The unsigned pieces tend to be undervalued and the most profitable to collect and one sure way to identify a particular manufacturer is by design. Unsigned pieces by companies like Bergere and B. David are highly prized by collectors and can be identified by their distinctive but high quality designs.

If other pricing factors are held constant, then the rarity of the piece will greatly determine value. While there were dozens of manufacturers, they all produced jewelry in varying quantities. Profits tend to be lower when talking about pieces made by the larger players like Coro and Accessocraft who produced jewelry in large batches. DeMario, McClelland, and other small companies might only have batch sizes numbering in the hundreds.

When other pricing variables are held constant, signed pieces from the small companies tend to be worth more money. Still, careful research is required because even larger manufacturers sometimes produced specialty batches. These were smaller batches making the pieces more valuable than others produced by the same company.

The overall design is accentuated by the quality of craftsmanship and materials used to produce each piece. The gemstones are typically the most relevant materials to the price of a vintage piece of costume jewelry. Costume jewelry is literally defined by its relatively cheap materials and yet there were a select few manufacturers who almost always used superior materials and production techniques. When talking about gemstone quality, the best companies to look for are:

Bogoff

Bergere

Weiss

Eisenberg

As with all antique valuations, the final condition of the piece plays a pivotal role in the price determination. Be careful to note and account for any excessive signs of wear, discoloration, lost stones, or damage of any kind to the jewelry as this will necessarily lower value. Remember, even vintage pieces showing considerable signs of wear can still command $100 or more. As all vintage costume jewelry has some degree of wear given its age, collectors still make handsome profits by collecting and selling even the "ugly pieces".

Post Title

→

Pricing Vintage Costume Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/pricing-vintage-costume-jewelry.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Vintage Costume Jewelry - Know What You're Buying

It could well be a costly mistake confusing vintage costume jewelry with the cheap necklaces and bracelets you see in most retail outlets today. The fashionable but inexpensive jewelry became emblematic of the free-willing 1920's, but amazingly retained its popularity even during the Great Depression years and beyond. As interest increased in the United States, more and more American companies began to design and produce some of the most coveted collectible vintage costume necklaces, bracelets, rings, and other jewelry.

But how does one actually classify or identify costume jewelry and what makes some pieces valuable?

Costume jewelry is always mass-produced using cheaper materials like semi-precious stones. Essentially, it became the more affordable jewelry alternative to the finer pieces made from gold, silver and precious gemstones like sapphires and emeralds. Some costume designs have become so popular that they now are worth many times more than their original sale price. To make money while collecting the jewelry, all you need to know is what affects value so you can identify the most profitable pieces. Assessing value of any given piece always boils down to five variables:

* Originality of Design
* Quality of Materials/Craftsmanship
* Rarity
* Supply
* Final Condition

Pricing is directly influenced by the supply and it varies greatly between designs and designers. Vintage jewelry was produced by dozens of manufacturers who all created batches of varying sizes. When considering the purchase of costume pieces made by the larger players like Trifari and Coro, it is important to note that these designers produced large volumes of jewelry making the demand for a given piece less. However, Barclays, DeMario, and many of the smaller companies had limited facilities making their smaller batches of jewelry more desirable. And when other pricing variables are held constant, signed pieces from the small companies tend to be worth more money.

Does anything actually help stimulate demand for a piece?

The originality of the design ultimately affects demand more than any other variable and plays a large role in determining value. While it is easier to locate and collect the signed vintage pieces, avid collectors know that the unsigned pieces tend to be the most undervalued- creating the most profit potential for a would-be collector. One sure way to locate valuable unsigned jewelry is to know the typical design traits of specific manufacturers.

The grade of materials and production techniques of costume jewelry pieces tend to equate to higher value when other factors remain unchanged. On vintage jewelry, the type and quality of the gemstones is of particular importance to the final price determination. Of course no precious stones are used in the production of costume jewelry but some companies were known for their high quality gemstones. Because of their exceptional stone quality and construction, count on jewelry designs to retain their high value when they are produced by:

* Bogoff
* Weiss
* Eisenberg

Finding signed Eisenberg jewelry pieces can be difficult, because they are some of the most popular and prized vintage pieces in the collectible market today. However, other manufacturers who still have pieces with great potential to buy low and sell high include Kramer, Danecraft, and Trifari.

Still, even though a vintage necklace, ring, or bracelet may be in less than perfect condition, collectors will pay good money for a piece they know is a good investment. As with any antique, vintage costume jewelry will have some signs of wear, but still retain its value for years to come. But, the important part is to know that when a piece of vintage costume jewelry captures your eye, it could also make you into a life long enthusiast.

Post Title

→

Vintage Costume Jewelry - Know What You're Buying

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/vintage-costume-jewelry-know-what-youre.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Vintage Costume Jewelry Is Increasing In Value

It is important to understand that not all costume jewelry is the cheap, worthless stuff that can be discarded after wearing a few times without much regret. Costume jewelry got its start in the dazzling theatres of Europe in the early 1900's, giving it the lasting name of "costume", but popularity really took off when Americans fell in love with it after the end of the First World War. Soon after, U.S. companies began dominating costume jewelry design and manufacturing from the late 1920's onward.

Even when talking about the collectible costume pieces, all of the jewelry is mass-produced using gemstones and gold or silver plating, rather than more expensive diamonds and solid metals. Yet, in spite of their humble origins, the vintage pieces produced in factories using semi-precious materials are now considered collectibles worth well beyond their original price. Some popular American manufacturers include:

* Coro
* Eisenberg
* Weiss
* Trifari
* Barclay

As with any vintage or antique item, the rarity of a certain costume design will greatly determine value. Vintage jewelry was produced by large, medium and small companies, creating both a lot of diversity, but also leading to dramatic differences in supply levels. Profits tend to be lower when talking about pieces made by the larger players like Coro and Accessocraft who produced jewelry in large batches. But this does not mean that ever piece of jewelry from large manufacturers is worth relatively the same amount of money. In fact, special editions or limited batch productions exist from almost every design company.

On the other hand, a piece of jewelry can be rare, but command little demand for some reason or another, greatly affecting value. Big collectibles right now with strong prices are signed vintage necklaces, earrings, and bracelets from Miriam Haskell. Potential investors only need to do a little homework on the Internet to find which designs are hot and thus drawing larger asking prices. Remember, the most popular designs are not necessarily the prettiest or most unique, but they will tend to be more profitable to collect.

Many vintage costume jewelry makers are notorious for producing collections that do not bear a jeweler's mark. Ultimately, these unsigned pieces often prove more profitable, because they are less recognized by sellers. A large portion of the entire vintage jewelry market is filled with unsigned pieces, making it imperative to recognize well-designed and valuable pieces. In most instances, simply being able to identify a quality design will help you expand on your valuable collection.

Craftsmanship and stone quality have also directly influenced the overall success or failure of any design. Gemstone quality, in particular, plays a key role in determining the value of a particular piece of costume jewelry. Some companies have become famous for using gemstones of exceptional quality, although none of them would be considered precious gems. Some of the best manufacturers to seek out if you are looking for superior quality are:

* Hollycraft
* Weiss
* Bogoff
* Bergere
* Boucher

With some treasured pieces of vintage costume jewelry nearing 100 years old, it is quite common to find many items showing significant signs of wear. Still, even vintage necklaces, bracelets, and other pieces are coveted by investors and collectors as they are worth big money even in less than perfect condition. By knowing what to look for, seasoned vintage costume or fashion jewelry collectors can still make great profits even off of jewelry with discoloration, rust or even missing stones.

Post Title

→

Vintage Costume Jewelry Is Increasing In Value

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/vintage-costume-jewelry-is-increasing.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Vintage Costume Jewelry - A Rhinestone In The Rough?

You will most likely never see the costume pieces of today appreciate in value but this is not the case with the vintage costume jewelry. Distinguishing between the valuable pieces and the worthless ones can turn out to be a very profitable hobby or even a career. Assessing value of any jewelry piece always boils down to five variables: Originality of Design, Rarity, Supply, Quality of Materials/Craftsmanship, and Final Condition.

Vintage costume jewelry is often confused with the cheap "fashion" variety you see in most retail stores today. Costume jewelry had been trendy with theatre people in Europe but popularity really took off when Americans fell in love with it during the 1920's and beyond when U.S. manufacturers then began dominating the industry. Some popular and highly coveted vintage costume pieces are made by some of these American companies, such as:

* Art
* Carnegie
* Weiss
* Eisenberg
* Coro

Antique pricing is greatly determined by the rarity of the item on the market, which is also the case where vintage jewelry is concerned. Dozens of different-sized manufacturers led to dramatic differences in batch sizes which ultimately affected the available supply for any given design. Larger companies like Coro and Trifari would commonly produce thousands of pieces of each design. On the other side of the coin, McClelland, DeMario and many of the smaller players might only produce a few hundred of each design. Signed and many unsigned pieces by small companies like Barclays will tend to command greater value on the market for no other reason then their relative rarity. Yet even large manufacturers conjured up a small specialty batch for holidays and other special occasions. And, in most cases, the specialty pieces will be of higher value than others produced by the very same outfit.

While rarity plays a large part in the overall value of any particular necklace or bracelet, demand always plays the largest role. If you want to collect vintage jewelry and make money, then you need to do a little homework and find out which pieces are in demand and which are not. Profits tend to be highest for investors when they do their homework and avoid purchasing pieces they like as opposed to the ones they know to be profitable.

In truth, the vast majority of vintage costume pieces are actually unsigned. Collectors can optimize profits by locating the unsigned pieces by the top manufacturers. In many cases, simply being able to identify a quality design will help you do this. The exceptional quality of jewelry design by companies like Hollycraft and Bergere make unsigned pieces from these companies both easy to spot and very profitable to collect.

The quality of the stones and overall craftsmanship of the jewelry piece also aids in the success and overall popularity of any design. The quality of production definitely helps preserve the condition of vintage costume jewelry, but the gemstone selection and overall quality are more important to price considerations. Costume jewelry is literally defined by its relatively cheap materials and yet there were a select few manufacturers who almost always used superior materials and production techniques. Try locating pieces from companies like Eisenberg or Bogoff as they almost always used the best stones possible.

The condition of the vintage piece is the final determining factor in value. It is quite common to find excess scratches, lost stones, rust, and other forms of discoloration on vintage costume jewelry pieces. Although, having noticeable signs of wear, most vintage costume jewelry is worth more today than when it was originally sold new.

Post Title

→

Vintage Costume Jewelry - A Rhinestone In The Rough?

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/vintage-costume-jewelry-rhinestone-in.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Collectibles and Jewelry Content - How to Write Collectible Jewelry Articles

If you go online and search Jewelry topics you will find that there are a number of books, and articles on this subject. One of the biggest topics in the category of jewelry is collectible jewelry. Apparently, there is a huge following for those authors that specialize in this venue. And many of them make quite a bit of money selling these articles to magazines, or newspapers.

There are many authors that have columns that run regularly and are syndicated around the country, it's their only job and they make a good a bit of money as writers producing content of this type.

When writing "how to articles" on collectible jewelry you need to get into the mind of your reader, you need to consider what they are searching online, the types of questions they are asking, and gear your articles to answering those points of curiosity. One of the most important questions people ask is how do they value the collectible jewelry they already have, or the handed down jewelry that has been in their family for generations.

Another question is; "How Much Can I Get on eBay If I Sell This Collectible Jewelry?" And along the same lines is "how do I know the collectible jewelry I buy on eBay is really worth the money?"

These are all important things to the readers of such articles. As long as you are asking questions of the consumers, and collectors of such jewelry, and then answering those questions in your articles you will produce excellent content for the Internet, magazines, newsletters, and newspapers. Please consider all this.

Post Title

→

Collectibles and Jewelry Content - How to Write Collectible Jewelry Articles

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/collectibles-and-jewelry-content-how-to.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Shopping Thrift Stores and Pawn Shops For Collectable Jewelry Considered

Finding pristine pieces of collectable jewelry takes a lot of patience and a bit of knowledge. That means it takes some experience and observational talents that must be developed over time. Some folks like to peruse the online ads on eBay, Craigslist and such to find collectable jewelry, but you better make sure you know what you are buying and that the picture displayed is crisp and the actual digital shot of the item that is for sale.

It's starting to sound a little dangerous buying stuff online or at online auctions isn't it? Sure it is, so beware. Still, a talented shopper can find some super deals online, again, with patience, knowledge and knowing exactly which questions to ask, before they send the electronic payments to the seller. May I be so bold as to offer some advice on shopping for collectable jewelry another way, using the "what you see, is really what you get method?"

Why not go into a nicer area and check out the Pawn Shops? Right now with the economy in the tank, many folks have hocked their collectable jewelry to get quick cash to stay in their homes, pay their mortgages, or get money to stay out of bankruptcy. With job losses increasing at the bottom of the recession, there is quite the supply available.

If you have collectable jewelry and you take it to a Pawn Shop do not expect to get much for it, it's too risky and many Pawn Shops will not give you much for it, as there is no definite market and its value is so hard to judge. There is a market for some specific top end brands like Rolex Watches, but for the most part collectable jewelry is not so easy to Pawn.

Perhaps this is why you can get such a good deal for it. And while you are at the Pawn Shop, why not check out the Thrift Stores too. The selection might not be so great during a down economy, since more folks are shopping for low prices for jewelry, but Thrift Stores often have great collectable jewelry, again if you are patient and know what to look for. Think on this.

Post Title

→

Shopping Thrift Stores and Pawn Shops For Collectable Jewelry Considered

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/04/shopping-thrift-stores-and-pawn-shops.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Vintage Costume Jewelry: Yesterday's Fashion Today

Jewelry, whether fine or costume, has been a part of human culture since the earliest times. People wear jewelry to satisfy their vanity, to indulge their love for beautiful things, and to look good to others. Vintage costume jewelry fulfills all these criteria, but at a fraction of the cost of real or fine jewelry. It is an inexpensive alternative that does not sacrifice taste as well as style.

Vintage costume jewelry may be less expensive, but good quality ones are never seen as cheap. They are less costly because they are not made from precious gems. Designers of vintage costume jewelry use a variety of materials from cut glass, beads, semi-precious gems, faux gems -- even plastic! These pieces were created and released since the start of the Victorian era up to the 1960s. Vintage costume jewelry from the 1940s and 1950s are especially creative and eye-catching, since the designers of the era had to produce relatively inexpensive yet fashionable items that men and women could afford and appreciate during the war and post-war era.

Some of the most popular designers of vintage costume jewelry were fashion guru Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli and Miriam Haskell. Many of Schiaparelli's bright and attractive creations were made from multi-colored rhinestones. Haskell, in her finely detailed work, almost always paid tribute to nature's beauty and bounty. Chanel, the favorite of many celebrities, transformed the way costume jewelry was worn in the 1920s. Other pieces of vintage costume jewelry were made from materials that included beads, corals, faux pearls, and Bakelite -- a kind of polymeric plastic.

Vintage costume jewelry continues to be very much in vogue today, and it has inspired many designers to create 'real' pieces made from precious gems and metals. At the 2005 Academy Awards, the jewelry that many women celebrities wore were oversized and sparkly, a tribute to the jewelry designs of the 1940s. Stars such as Madonna, Britney Spears, and Julia Roberts are not only collectors of vintage costume jewelry and dress accessories; they actually wear them in public, too.

A person does not have to be a celebrity to appreciate vintage costume jewelry. Their uniqueness, aesthetic value and superb craftsmanship make them popular collectible items, and with proper care, they can be a good investment, too, since serious collectors will pay top dollar for vintage costume jewelry that is in mint condition. But more than that, the experience of owning and wearing a thing of beauty that comes from a bygone era is simply priceless.

Post Title

→

Vintage Costume Jewelry: Yesterday's Fashion Today

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/03/vintage-costume-jewelry-yesterdays.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Beyond Gold and Platinum: Mokume Gane

In many ways the "ultimate" noble metal that one might consider for jewelry isn't gold or platinum but their slightly tan colored cousin iridium. With the possible exception of osmium (which is smelly and toxic) it's the rarest non-radioactive element in the earth's crust -- several times more so than either gold or platinum. It's even more chemically incorruptible than the other two, it's heavier (17% denser than gold and 6% denser than platinum), and it's much more scratch-resistant. There's also the additional mystique that most if not all of the iridium we mine comes from meteorite impacts and is therefore extraterrestrial. Unfortunately no one has come up with a way to work with it economically, mainly due to its absurdly high melting point and its glassy brittleness. The first artisan to tame iridium will surely take the world by the tail.

But in the meantime there's a metalworking specialty that's just as interesting if not more so called mokume gane (mo-KOO-may GAH-nay) which involves bonding as many as thirty alternating layers of differently colored metals; twisting, stretching, or otherwise heavily deforming the resulting mass; and then carving it into rings and such that display a riotously swirling agate- or woodgrain-like surface. Japanese metalworker Denbei Shoami (1651-1728) invented mokume gane to make ornamental handles for samurai swords. Metals used include silver; gold and differing hues of it such as rose, white, and green; shakudo (an alloy of 96% copper and 4% gold that develops a blue-black patina); kuromi-do (copper with a smidgen of arsenic); shibuichi (a pink copper/silver alloy); and various alloys of titanium and tungsten that can involve iron, nickel and molybdenum. They sandwich these layers and heat them to a temperature, which chemists call a eutectic, that's hot enough to cause the atoms to jostle and intermingle at the layer boundaries yet not so great as to melt the stack into an undifferentiated blob.

Post Title

→

Beyond Gold and Platinum: Mokume Gane

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/03/beyond-gold-and-platinum-mokume-gane.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Fine Jewelry

Looking good is a basic human tendency. However, the amount of money that one would like to spend on looking good varies from one person to another and is subject to many factors. Our sense of style and taste is one of the vital factors that determines what we buy. If you are one of those who do not compromise on your accessories because of the cost involved, then you are bound to possess an enviable collection of "fine" jewelry.

Which jewelry, some of you may ask, can be categorized as "fine" jewelry? A bangle made out of brass may look just as "fine" to you as one made out of gold. Plainly speaking, fine jewelry may be defined as jewelry made out of precious metals such as gold or silver and set with precious or semi-precious stones. However, this is neither a final definition nor an absolute one. It conveniently leaves out the finest jewelry of all times, platinum jewelry. Also, it is not always necessary that the precious metal should be set with diamonds or other stones to be able to qualify as "fine" jewelry.

Any jewelry that is precious and is made out of metals or stones that we consider precious and expensive falls into the category of "fine jewelry". The finest gold, silver, platinum and diamonds are chosen to be used in the crafting of fine jewelry. Designed specially for the discriminating eye, fine jewelry is available in exclusive designs and is immaculately crafted. Bridal jewelry, wedding bands and diamond rings set in gold or platinum are all specimens of fine jewelry that are designed with immense articulation and an eye for detail. Fine jewelry is like an heirloom, a work of timeless ethereal perfection, which stays in bloom for all times to come.

Post Title

→

Fine Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/03/fine-jewelry.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Knowing Your Antique & Vintage Jewelry

To wear and enjoy a beautiful piece of antique and vintage jewelry with a history behind can be a wonderful, exhilarating experience. For many it is a lovingly addicting hobby. The more you collect, the more you want to collect! It's that exciting! But when buying these jewels of yesterday, how can one be certain that what they are buying is truly authentic and not relatively new and/or of it's claimed value? It's always advisable to buy from reputable dealers who guarantee their items plus learning what to look for in a piece. Attend Antique & Collectable Shows, browse Antique Shops and read lots of books to familiarize yourself with period styles and their findings.

When looking at a piece, examine it carefully both front and back. An genuinely old piece will have all the ingredients to confirm its authenticity. Many jewelry styles do tend to overlap so always check the entire piece for clues. Is the piece signed, hallmarked? Surprisingly enough a lot of antique jewelry was marked in the most unusual of places so check along the edges, inside of the bale, the pin stem and even on the back of the pin stem! You'll be amazed at what you could find and where you will find it. Suddenly a piece of jewelry that you thought was newer or made of silver plate or gold plate now may be seen in a different light as genuine antique silver or gold and have a lot of value!

A lot of old jewelry such as Victorian Jewelry was not marked. So now what? A Victorian brooch with a long pin stem extending outward is a good indication that it's early Victorian while a shorter one is of a later date. The "C" clasp is another indication that the piece is old. Remember that there are always exceptions to the rules since the "C" clasp was also used later on in Europe so take every detail into account to come to your full conclusion. Look at the hinge and the clasp of a brooch, bracelet, necklace, etc.. Does it look like a clasp used today or does it seem a bit different to you? Compare new pieces to old pieces. Does the jewelry have a brass spring ring clasp from the 1930s or a shiny gold plate clasp? Are the findings on a piece consistent with the design of that era? Those small differences could answer your questions and drastically influence the value of a piece. The tube hinge was generally used until the 1890s where the safety catch clasp became popular in the Art Deco 1920s period. Over the years the appearance of the safety catch clasp has changed so it's good to recognize the old from the new. Many clasps on old jewelry such as pins broke in time so replacement ones were soldered onto the back. All better Jewelry is soldered at some place but if the piece has raised pads soldered to the back of the Brooch where the clasp is attached then it is a replacement clasp.

Another good clue to dating a piece and determining the value of Antique and Vintage Jewelry is to look at the metal content where there might be some underneath wear, usually in back where it would rub against the clothing. Genuine Gold and Silver, even if it has wear, will not show a base metal underneath since it continues all the way through. Many costume pieces from the nineteenth century and into the Art Deco period were made of gold and/or silver over base metals such as gold over brass, silver over brass, silver over copper, gold over copper, etc. That's one way of knowing the piece is at least 60 years old and more. During the war years of the 1940s there was a shortage of base metals where it affected the jewelry industry so sterling silver was substituted. If you see a marking such as "1/20 12K on Sterling" then 1/5 of the piece is 12K gold and is likely to be from 1942 to 1945. Vintage Bakelite which is a Polymeric Plastic invented by Leo Hendrik Baekeland in 1907, became popular in jewelry design during the hardships of World War II also. There are several tests in determining Authentic Antique and Vintage Bakelite Jewelry using Formula 409, Hot Water, Simichrome Polish and a Q-Tip. Still some Bakelite such as Black Bakelite may not test positive. Since Bakelite is either cast or molded it would not have a seam line anywhere and the workmanship should look hand carved and not be crudely executed as if a stamp was used. On Vintage Bakelite brooches, the clasp would be embedded into the piece.

Fine Jewelry containing Diamonds or Precious Stones such as Rubies, Emeralds and Sapphires are either bezel-set, inset or set with prongs and will always have open-backs for maximum brightness. Air bubbles seen in stones is a clue right off that the piece is glass. Marcasites which were substituted for diamonds as early as the 1700s, regained it's popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. A higher valued marcasite piece would have better workmanship where each marcasite would be set with tiny prongs or beads versus glued in ones and because of this the stones will stay in place longer. This is also true for Rhinestones in Vintage Costume Jewelry where prong set ones are valued higher than glued in ones.

These are just some of the many tips to knowing your Jewelry. It's so helpful to learn what to look for when buying Antique and Vintage Jewelry which also can be as much fun as wearing and collecting it! Knowledge is definitely Jewelry Golden!

Post Title

→

Knowing Your Antique & Vintage Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/03/knowing-your-antique-vintage-jewelry.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

How to Buy Fine Diamond or Gemstone Jewelry?

Nothing more personal than our response to color. Color is the new Language of passion, and nothing captures it better than distinctively styled jewelry. Leave her speechless with our brilliant colorless and fancy colored diamond or bold brilliant gemstone jewelry styles.

When you buy even the finest jewelry, you are buying a manufactured item, no matter how handcrafted it is. The reasons begin with the metal, because precious metal used in jewelry is never pure.

Gold, platinum, and silver are all alloyed for various reasons. The greater the amount of the alloy, the less value the precious metal. For example, the price gold on the commodities market and the world gold market is based on 24 Karat or 0.9999 Gold. Thus, the value of gold in jewelry is worth only as much as the percentage of gold used. 22 Karat gold will have more gold than 18 Karat gold, and 18 Karat gold will have more gold than 14 Karat gold, but none has the amount of gold as pure 24 Karat gold. The same considerations hold true for silver and platinum.

The first reason why jewelry is not an investment, therefore, is that you are buying karat gold, not "pure gold," and gold is valuable simply because it is gold. Since the world market is based on "pure" gold, the gold in jewelry has less value, depending on the karatage. That value will increase, or decrease, with the price of gold, but will never equal the price of pure gold.

The manufactured metal is further manufactured in jewelry in design and workmanship, both of which add to the cost of the gold. If you buy a fine jewelry, regardless of whether you buy it from the person who made it or from a store (including online store) you are paying for design, workmanship, and exclusivity, all of which add to the price of the gold and may cost more than the gold. If you buy mass-manufactured jewelry, the cost of design and workmanship is spread out among all the pieces of jewelry of that design. You are also paying for increases in cost along the sales chain until the jewelry reaches you. The manufacturer, the wholesaler, and the jeweler all increase the actual original cost to allow for their overhead, costs, and for their profits.

The same consideration hold true for jewelry with gems. Jewelry with gems may even be a worse investment than plain gold jewelry. The price of gems has risen drastically, as have the prices of furs and cars, and just about everything else in recent years as well as the precious metals, but the value of gems is quirky, often depending on fashion and demand, among other factors.

Diamonds are one example. Prices of diamonds have risen, although the prices have escalated drastically only for certain diamonds. One reason for the rise in general is demand. The United States alone accounts for more than 50% of the world diamond jewelry market. Thanks to aggressive advertising campaign, that percentage has held true, regardless of how the market in other parts of world has increased. Thus, the price increases along with the number of people vying to buy diamonds, as soon as the market does not meet the demand.

Another reason is that the market is controlled by DeBeers, through its subsidiaries, DeBeers control sales of 85% of all diamonds from all over Africa, Russia, and elsewhere. Monopolistic as it is argument offered by DeBeers that keep even Russia in line is that diamonds are a luxury item, with an intrinsic value unmatched in any other such item, but the value can be maintained only by strict control. The strategy has worked successfully for every one in the diamond market except consumers.

Jewelry with colored stones is not as tightly controlled internationally as the diamond supply.

Buying jewelry, the first rule is to buy jewelry, with or without gems, because it appeals to you emotionally and you like and can afford it. Do not buy jewelry purely for the purpose of an investment. If the past inflation is any indication, you would have to keep the jewelry at least 6 - 10 years just to break even on the purchase price, not allowing for any profit. You may have to take a big loss if you need to sell in a hurry.

The article above can be used on your web site or newsletter. When it is published, may I request that you include my name and resource box (the bio, contact and copyright information) that follows the article. I would also appreciate if you could send me an email of notification along with a complimentary copy of the publication.

Post Title

→

How to Buy Fine Diamond or Gemstone Jewelry?

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/03/how-to-buy-fine-diamond-or-gemstone.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Online Fine Jewelry Purchases Increasing

Fine Jewelry is Just a Click Away

With Americans spending over $50 billion each year on jewelry and watches, it's no wonder that online fine jewelry purchases are increasing by leaps and bounds. Instead of traipsing through malls in search of the perfect ear pins, belly rings, and necklaces, consumers can shop for fine jewelry from the comfort of their own homes.

When shopping for fine jewelry - whether you're looking for earrings, ear cuffs, necklaces, or body jewelry - it's important to have an understanding of the basic materials and stones that are used in the making of fine jewelry.

Materials:

Yellow Gold - Pure gold (24 kt. gold) is too soft to use in jewelry, so it's typically combined with silver to form a metal alloy consisting of 14 kt. gold.

White Gold - White gold is colorless, like silver, but won't ever tarnish, and is typically a combination of gold and nickel.

Sterling Silver - Like gold, fine silver is too soft for use in jewelry, so silver is combined with 7.5% of other metals (typically copper) to produce sterling silver.

Platinum - A beautiful silver-white color, platinum occurs as an alloy in nature. It's tarnish-resistant qualities and durability make it a favorite material for fine jewelry.

Gemstones:

Jewelers incorporate a wide variety of gemstones into fine jewelry. From diamonds to pearls, from rubies to sapphires, gemstones can add sparkle and personality to earrings, ear pins, and ear cuffs. Today, many jewelers use simulated gemstones, which offer the sparkle of the "real thing" at a fraction of the cost.

Birthstones:

Fine jewelry that incorporates birthstones is a perennial favorite, especially when given as a gift on the recipient's special day. According to Solisa (www.solisa.com), the premiere online destination for fine jewelry, the following gemstones and colors are associated with each birth month:

January: Garnet (dark red)

February: Amethyst (purple)

March: Aquamarine (pale blue)

April: Diamond (starlight)

May: Emerald (light green)

June: Pearl, White (pearlescent)

July: Ruby (red)

August: Peridot (pale green)

September: Sapphire, Blue (deep blue)

October: Opal (moonlight)

November: Citrine (yellow)

December: Topaz, Blue (sky blue)

Trends

Knowing the latest jewelry trends is always helpful when buying fine jewelry for yourself or as a gift. This season, celebrities are wearing ear pins and ear cuffs both on and off the red carpet. Solisa (www.solisa.com) has the largest selection of ear pins on the Web, and they can be worn with either pierced or unpierced ears. Whether make from gold or silver, ear cuffs add the extra touch needed to make you stand out from the crowd.

When selecting earrings or necklaces with gemstones, the key this season is to combine colors for maximum effect. Pair a deep blue with garnet, or purple with medium green. With Solisa's (www.solisa.com) color key, it's easy to shop for specific gemstone colors to complement your wardrobe.

Belly rings are also given the once-over this season, with gemstones being key. Change your belly ring to reflect your mood, and show off the toned tummy you worked so hard to develop!

Online Shopping

When shopping for fine jewelry online, it's important to find a reputable site. Solisa (www.solisa.com) is the leading online retailer for unique fine jewelry. With a huge selection and an easy-to-use online catalog, you'll find the latest jewelry fashion without the hassle of mall shopping. Be sure to visit them today.

Post Title

→

Online Fine Jewelry Purchases Increasing

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/03/online-fine-jewelry-purchases.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Antique Jewelry

If you are fond of vintage items, you don't have to depend entirely on your ancestors to acquire a few of these heirlooms. Heirloom-quality jewelry from the Victorian, Edwardian, art deco and other periods is now readily available. When you wish to gift a rare piece of jewelry to your beloved, choose a unique vintage item that she will preserve for the rest of her life. Antique jewelry, a term applied to jewelry over a hundred years old, is now a favorite with the prospective brides, too. With everything that is old now coming back into fashion, most brides walking down the aisle are adorning vintage jewelry with pride.

Among the jewelry pieces that you can pick up are antique engagement rings, studded necklaces, bracelets, brooches, crosses, pendants, lockets and other extraordinary pieces of timeless art and beauty.

These antique jewelry pieces come to you through antique jewelry auctions, fairs and sales that are frequented by the jewelers to bring you pieces of extraordinary charm and elegance. Some of the jewelers also specify the age of the antique jewelry on display. For instance, some may claim to keep pieces from 1900 to 1950 (Edwardian, art deco and retro jewelry), and some may have heirloom pieces that are at least two centuries old (late Georgian or Victorian jewelry)!

Shopping for antique jewelry has an added advantage. It acquaints you to the history and culture of the era to which it belongs. You would be interested to know how the fashion of wearing delicate dresses in the Georgian era favored the use of small, light jewelry. Pendants with miniature paintings of loved ones were also prevalent in the late-Georgian era. In a similar way, jewelry belonging to each era is a reflection of the changing fashions. So, with every piece of antique jewelry, you also buy memories of a long lost era.

Post Title

→

Antique Jewelry

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/03/antique-jewelry.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection

Invest in Tomorrow's Collectible Jewelry Today

Wouldn't it be great to have a time machine that would allow you to go back and buy today's collectible jewelry at yesterday's prices? You can do the next best thing by buying jewelry today that will become sought after in the future. Here are eight tips to help you in your search for tomorrow's collectible jewelry.

1. Quality and craftsmanship

Quality pieces command quality prices. Cheap jewelry is a dime a dozen at flea markets and resale shops. But quality pieces with crystal stones that still shimmer and faux pearls that have retained their luster paired with metal that hasn't had its finish rubbed or flaked off, will always hold appeal for collectors.

2. Pieces hallmarked with the designer's name

A designer's name or mark on a piece adds instant value. It gives an item the cachet of the entire breadth of the designer's work. Look for a hallmark on the back of pins or brooches, near the clasp of necklaces and bracelets, or on a separate hanging tag in the same finish as the metal.

3. Name recognition

Not every designer becomes well-known. Every collector of vintage jewelry probably has at least one piece in their collection with an obscure hallmark they can't identify, and that's fine if they like the piece. But when they come across a piece with an instantly recognizable name, they don't hesitate to scoop it up. They know they've found something special -- and they know they'll be able to sell it in the future to someone who will appreciate the name as well as the style.

4. Small production per piece

The fewer pieces of an item there are in existence, the higher the demand and price. Opt for the offbeat or unusual -- as long as you like it -- over a generic piece with mass appeal. While both will have resale value if they're made well, the unique piece should prove harder to find, thus driving up its resale price. If a more expensive item captures your heart, remember that fewer people buy a higher priced item which can create increased demand in the future.

5. Limited Edition pieces

A Limited Edition eliminates the guesswork of how many pieces were made. Limited Edition pieces should be stamped with both the total number in the Edition and the number of each particular piece. For example, piece number 12 in an addition of 250 will most likely be stamped on back "Ltd. Ed. 12/250". If you buy a piece that isn't stamped with the actual edition, but instead has a Certificate of Authenticity with that information, be sure to keep the Certificate with the item to ensure you get the optimum resale price in the future.

6. Thematic pieces

Look for pieces that will have crossover appeal to at least two groups of collectors. For example, Christmas jewelry is sought after by both jewelry collectors and Christmas collectors. If it's an angel, you'll add angel collectors to your list of potential buyers as well. The more people you have vying for an item, the higher your selling price will be.

7. Assurance of authenticity

Buy from a reputable retailer. Designers in all fields are plagued by knock-offs. An Authorized Reseller protects your investment by ensuring that you're getting the genuine articles you're paying for.

8. Buy what you like

This is the Cardinal Rule for collectors. You'll never go wrong buying what you like. Today's joy won't be diminished if you aren't able to sell something at a profit tomorrow. And if you truly love something -- you probably won't want to part with it anyway!

Post Title

→

Invest in Tomorrow's Collectible Jewelry Today

Post URL

→

http://fromemaliwithlove.blogspot.com/2011/02/invest-in-tomorrows-collectible-jewelry.html

Visit Collectible Jewelry for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection