Understanding the difference between estate and vintage jewellery will ensure that you are happy when you purchase new pieces.

Image Source: Pixabay

While many people think that estate and vintage jewellery are the same thing, this is an erroneous thought. Even though both are generally older pieces of jewellery that have some value, there is a major difference that will allow you to determine whether the piece of jewellery that you own is vintage or a piece of estate jewellery. Understanding the difference can assist you with valuation and getting the necessary repairs if your piece of jewellery is damaged and you want to wear it without fear of it breaking.

Estate Jewellery

This pre-owned jewellery doesn’t have to be a set number of years old to be considered estate jewellery. The main thing to consider when you are shopping for jewellery and find pieces that are called “estate jewellery” is that this simply means that the piece is from the private collection of another person. These pieces may be antique or vintage or may simply be a few years old. The best way to check the value of the jewellery that you are considering buying, especially if you are not purchasing it from a reputable source, is to take it to an expert in jewellery repairs and restoration, as they can fix the jewellery for you and even provide you with a value.

Antique Jewellery

Unlike estate jewellery, when you are buying antique jewellery, you can rest easy knowing that you are purchasing a piece that is significantly older. Generally, this jewellery is at least a century old, and while that may seem like a wide range of time, you can often compare the style or craftsmanship in the piece to determine when it may have been made. It’s a good idea to check the stones, the quality of work, and if there is any damage to the piece to ensure that you are getting a piece of antique jewellery that will last and won’t need expensive repairs.

When buying jewellery, if the age of the piece matters to you, then you will want to make sure that you understand the distinction between estate and antique jewellery so that you are not disappointed in your purchase. While estate jewellery is very often antique, there isn’t any guarantee that it will be, which is why you will want to take your piece to a professional for valuation and more information if you are interested in learning more about its history, value, and whether it is a good piece for investment.