How To Identify Genuine Antique Jewellery

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How To Identify Genuine Antique Jewellery
www.nigelnorman.co.uk
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Piece of Antique Jewellery

• I am often asked how to identify a piece of
  antique jewellery. In the UK a genuine antique is
  an item that is over 100 years old, in its
  original condition and form and without any
  additions or alterations at a later date. It has
  to be an original and not in the style of.
  However, in the USA it is different, for an item
  to qualify as an antique it only has to be over
  50 years old.
• To add to the confusion, many pieces of 18th and
  19th century jewellery have been broken up, the
  valuable stones removed and then used to create a
  more modern piece of jewellery in the old style,
  copying the original setting. This does not
  qualify as an antique.

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A Valuable Original Stone

• Conversely if the setting is original but a
  valuable original stone or cluster has been
  removed and replaced with a more modern stone or
  cluster of lesser value and importance, then once
  again, the item is not in its original condition
  and form so does not qualify as an antique.
• In these circumstances a knowledgeable eye is
  needed to identify the age of the item of
  jewellery and whether the item is original or
  not. Over the years I have been on numerous
  vetting committees for various London antique
  fairs to assess the quality of items and there
  have been many occasions where items were removed
  due to the jewellery being incorrect in some way
  or another.

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• My breadth of knowledge stems from being in the
  jewellery trade for 40 years beginning many moons
  ago when my brother and I joined my Father in the
  family business. My Father was extremely
  knowledgeable, an excellent teacher and a great
  story teller.but that will have to wait until
  next time!
• I hope this has been of help to you but if you
  would like to ask any questions please do not
  hesitate to contact me. https//nigelnorman.co.uk/