Khin’s Corner -
A Jewelry Appraiser’s Blog
Welcome to “Khin’s Corner – A Jewelry Appraiser’s Blog” and thanks for taking a moment to read this month’s Blog! Here is where we delve into all things related to your precious jewelry.
This month we’re learning about HIDDEN TREASURES!
Inheriting a piece of jewelry or stumbling upon a stunning find at a garage sale or thrift store can be exhilarating. Yet, many people are unaware that their seemingly ordinary piece might actually be a hidden treasure.
Where to Search
If you haven’t suddenly inherited a box full of jewelry and you want to search for hidden treasures, you might want to browse the following locations:
Garage Sales
Yard Sales
Rummage Sales
Church/Temple Sales
Tag Sales
Estate Sales
Private Auctions
Flea Markets
Thrift Stores
Second-Hand Shops
Storage Unit Auctions
Spotting Potential Treasures
While doing your casual browsing, you might come across jewelry that seems to have potential. Here’s what to look for to identify pieces that might be worth more than they appear:
Provenance: Jewelry with a known history or connection to a notable person or period can significantly increase in value.
Maker’s Marks and Signatures: Look for hallmarks or signatures from renowned jewelers like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, or Fabergé. These marks can indicate a highly collectible piece.
Original Packaging: Jewelry that comes with its original box or packaging often has increased value, reflecting its provenance and care.
Fine Design and Workmanship: Pieces with intricate designs, detailed engraving, and high-quality craftsmanship are usually more valuable.
Sound Construction: Well-made jewelry with sturdy settings and clasps often commands a higher value.
Original Components: Jewelry with original gemstones and fittings, rather than replacements, tend to be more valuable.
Condition: Pieces in excellent condition with minimal wear and tear generally hold more value. Well-preserved or properly restored items are preferable.
Matched Pairs and Sets: A complete set of jewelry or matched pairs (like earrings) usually holds more value than individual pieces.
Custom-Fitted Boxes: This is extremely special and rare. The box the jewelry sits in has custom depressions for each item. Similar to the original packaging, custom-fitted boxes often suggest a high-quality piece and can enhance its value.
Understanding Jewelry Types
To better assess what you’ve found, it’s important to understand different types of jewelry:
Antique Jewelry: Typically over 100 years old, showcasing craftsmanship from its era with distinctive styles such as Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian.
Vintage Jewelry: Any jewelry item less than 100 years old, including various styles from past decades.
Revivalist Jewelry: Modern pieces inspired by historical styles. They are not copies of older pieces, but are produced with a similarity of style. They may resemble antique jewelry but are produced contemporarily as a homage to a particular period style and technique.
Reproduction Jewelry: New pieces designed to be copies of older pieces. These attempt to be exactly as close to the original item as possible.
Costume Jewelry: Made with non-precious materials like base metals and synthetic stones, generally holding less value than fine jewelry.
Purchase items that appeal to you. The hidden treasure you’ve found might be valuable, or it might not be, but it is yours to wear and enjoy.
Get Your Hidden Treasure Jewelry Item Appraised
Whether you’ve inherited a precious heirloom or discovered and purchased a promising piece while browsing, Good Khin Gems, LLC is here to help you uncover its true value. Our Nationally Certified Jewelry Appraisers provide accurate assessments and detailed documentation to ensure you understand the worth of your jewelry.
Why Choose a Professional Appraisal?
You think you’ve found that hidden treasure, now what? Determining the true value of jewelry can be challenging. Here’s why a professional appraisal from Good Khin Gems, LLC is essential:
Expert Knowledge: Our certified master appraisers have the training and experience to accurately assess the value of your jewelry. We consider crucial factors such as metal content, gemstone quality, and craftsmanship—details that might not be apparent at first glance.
Accurate Market Value: A professional appraisal provides you with a current market value, which is vital for insurance, or estate planning purposes. Jewelry values can fluctuate based on market trends and demand, and our appraisals ensure you have up-to-date information.
Authenticity Verification: At Good Khin Gems, LLC, we verify the authenticity of gemstones and materials, distinguishing between genuine and synthetic or imitation items. Our expert analysis ensures that your jewelry is accurately represented.
Detailed Documentation: Our appraisals come with comprehensive documentation, with included photographic records, which makes them an invaluable resource for insurance claims, or estate purposes. You’ll receive a clear and detailed report of your jewelry’s value.
Contact us today to schedule your appraisal and turn your jewelry discoveries into valuable assets. With Good Khin Gems, LLC, you’ll have the professional guidance needed to make informed decisions about your hidden treasures.
The Birthstone for September is Sapphire!
(Happy Birthday to those of you who get to enjoy the alluring blue of this beautiful precious gemstone.)
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