Vintage is a somewhat tricky term. For jewelry to be considered vintage, it needs to be more than 20-30 years old. By today’s estimation, that means jewelry that has been created before the ‘90s is vintage. However, we usually only consider vintage jewelry as created before the ‘80s. Technically speaking, all antique jewelry, therefore, is also vintage. But jewelry that is too old, say from 1800s, is considered antique. To better explain the composition of vintage jewelry, here is an article by Carmen Linehan Many men and women often desire custom jewelry because it is unique. A designer who makes lots unique jewelry can make custom jewelry may create a piece of jewelry, or it can be a piece of jewelry put together by an individual for their personal use. The different elements that are used to make jewelry don't always have to be new. Sometimes using vintage pieces will make your jewelry even more enticing; so don't be afraid to venture into using vintage jewelry.
Vintage Pendant
Purchasing Vintage Jewelry
One of the best places to purchase inexpensive vintage jewelry pieces to use in making this jewelry is at a garage sale. You will find that some people sell broken pieces of jewelry at really inexpensive prices that you can mix and match to create new pieces. For fine vintage jewelry, you will need to go to jeweler or buy directly from the owner.
Where To Find Great Finds
Jewelers that specialize in selling fine jewelry will often have sales or sell jewelry pieces that they have chosen not to sell or repair. Gemstones are often sold separately or you can get a setting with no stones in it. Theses pieces can be put together to create unique fine custom jewelry.
Vintage Engagement Ring[/caption] Estate sales and garage sales will often sell vintage jewelry. Some of the items that you will find at a garage sale will be old, sometimes even antique in nature. While these things may need a bit of cleaning in order to bring back their old, beautiful shine, they will still work nicely in the jewelry that you are creating. You may even find a garage sale that offers a collective sale where you will find more of these things. Often you will be able to find some old costume jewelry at a garage sale. While these pieces may not be all that great, some of it can still be intermingled with other pieces to create a really special look. You can do some experimenting and you will find what works best for you.
Finding Vintage Jewelry In Your Own House
Jewelry stores, estate sales, and garage sales aren't the only place to find old jewelry parts. You can probably even find some in your own house. This is because most people have pieces of jewelry that they plan to fix someday. Well, stop waiting for that day and reuse these pieces to make new jewelry. You may even want to ask your family and friends if they have some old jewelry scattered around that they no longer want.
Vintage Earring
Finding More Than Vintage Beads And Pendants
Beads and pendants aren't the only thing that you can use from old jewelry. More than likely, you will find clasps that can be reused. Just make sure that they are still working. You may also find some old strings and earring fittings to use. The design of some vintage jewelry may inspire a design for a new and custom piece of jewelry. You can have a lot of fun by mixing your old pieces with some new items to create an entirely new and unique custom-made piece of jewelry.
Vintage Diamond Ring
When you want unique jewelry but don't want to create it yourself, you can look through Gray & Son's estate jewelry collection. They have a large selection of fine estate jewelry and watches. Request their free catalog and shop conveniently at home. Read More about Vintage Jewelry Components. For the finest used and preowned watches and estate jewelry visit Gray And Sons. Order a free jewelry catalog to see their entire collection, today.
Looking for high quality vintage and antique-inspired jewelry? Visit Ellis Fine Jewelers.