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Entity | Definition |
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Victorian Antique Jewelry | Jewelry from the Victorian era (1837-1901), known for romantic and nature-inspired designs. |
Edwardian Antique Jewelry | Fine jewelry from the Edwardian period (1901-1915), featuring intricate filigree and platinum settings. |
Art Nouveau Antique Jewelry | Jewelry from the late 19th to early 20th century, characterized by flowing lines and nature motifs. |
Art Deco Antique Jewelry | Antique jewelry from the 1920s-1930s featuring bold geometric designs and symmetry. |
Retro Antique Jewelry | Jewelry from the 1940s-1950s with large, bold designs and colorful gemstones. |
Aercrombie Jewelry – Experts in Antique Jewelry Austin
Abercrombie Jewelry has been a trusted name in Austin for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and history of antique jewelry. From Victorian lockets to Edwardian diamond rings and Art Nouveau brooches, every piece tells a story.
Antique jewelry stands apart with its detailed handwork, unique gemstone cuts, and timeless designs. Whether it’s a Georgian-era necklace or an intricate filigree engagement ring from the early 1900s, these pieces carry both beauty and history. Gold and platinum settings, old mine-cut diamonds, and rare natural pearls are just a few of the elements that make antique jewelry special.
Each era has its distinct style. Victorian jewelry often features romantic motifs like hearts and flowers, while Edwardian pieces are known for their delicate lace-like designs. Art Deco jewelry, with its bold geometric patterns and colorful gemstones, remains a favorite among collectors. Identifying and evaluating these details takes experience, and that’s where our expertise comes in.
Signed antique pieces from designers like Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and Boucheron hold particular value, as do those with rare gemstones such as Burmese rubies or Kashmir sapphires. Watches from early Swiss makers also carry strong demand among collectors.
With years of experience in the Austin market, we provide honest evaluations based on the design, condition, and market trends of antique jewelry. Every assessment is handled with attention to detail and respect for the piece’s history.
If you have antique jewelry in Austin that you're considering selling, reach out to Abercrombie Jewelry for a professional evaluation.
Antique jewelry is more than just a collection of pretty adornments; it represents historical significance and often carries sentimental value. To preserve the integrity and beauty of these pieces, proper storage is essential. By understanding that antique jewelry requires special care due to its age, materials, and craftsmanship, owners can take steps to ensure their treasures withstand the test of time.
The environment in which antique jewelry is stored can greatly affect its condition. Temperature fluctuations and humidity can cause metals to tarnish and delicate stones to crack or become discolored. Therefore, it's crucial to store these precious items in a controlled environment where temperature and humidity levels are stable. A cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or any heat sources is ideal for preventing damage.
Each piece of antique jewelry should be treated as unique and given its own space for storage. This prevents scratching or tangling that could occur when pieces come into contact with each other. Soft cloth pouches or lined jewelry boxes with individual compartments are recommended for each item. For necklaces and bracelets, consider using padded hooks to maintain their shape and avoid kinks in chains.
Before storing your antique jewelry for an extended period, it's important to clean it gently to remove oils, dust, or residues that may corrode the materials over time. However, one must be cautious with the cleaning process—antique pieces are delicate and can be damaged by harsh chemicals found in some commercial cleaners. Instead, use a soft brush with mild soap if necessary or consult a professional jeweler for advice on cleaning specific items.
Even when stored properly, it's wise to regularly inspect antique jewelry for signs of wear or damage such as loose settings or frayed strings on beaded items. Catching these issues early allows for prompt repairs before they become major problems that could compromise the piece's structure or appearance. Regular inspections also provide an opportunity to enjoy your collection while ensuring that everything remains in top condition for future generations to admire.
The term "antique" when applied to jewelry has a specific connotation and a standard that is widely accepted by jewelers, collectors, and authorities in the field. To be considered antique, a piece of jewelry must be at least 100 years old. This century mark acts as a historical threshold that delineates contemporary and vintage pieces from those with true antiquity.
The age requirement for jewelry to achieve antique status is not arbitrary. The 100-year benchmark ensures that the item reflects a different era and possesses historical significance. Jewelry from such periods often showcases craftsmanship techniques, styles, materials, and cultural influences that differ greatly from modern designs, providing insight into the fashion and societal norms of the time.
To establish a piece of jewelry as an antique, it must be accurately dated by experts. This involves an examination of various factors including design features, hallmarks, signatures, and manufacturing techniques. Provenance can also play a crucial role in authentication; documentation or evidence tracing the item's history enhances its claim to antiquity.
Owning antique jewelry comes with the responsibility of proper maintenance to preserve its condition and value. Specialized care is often required due to the delicate nature of older materials and methods used in their creation. Proper storage conditions, regular professional cleanings, and avoidance of harsh chemicals are essential practices for anyone who owns or deals with antique jewelry pieces.
Use mild soap, avoid harsh chemicals, and store properly.
Some are, but older rings may be more delicate.
Fake hallmarks, modern cuts, and poor craftsmanship are red flags.