How to Date Vintage Costume Jewelry: A Guide for Collectors
Posted on 04 August 2023
If you're a vintage costume jewelry enthusiast, dating your precious finds can be an exciting journey. Here are some valuable tips to help you get started:
1. Look for Identifying Marks
When examining vintage pieces, keep an eye out for identifying marks or signatures left by the designer or manufacturer. Notable vintage costume jewelry brands like "Trifari," "Coro," or "Miriam Haskell" often stamped their creations, offering valuable clues about the era and origin of the jewelry. Discover a treasure trove of vintage jewelry with detailed markings at Sparklesplendorvintage and SugarNY.
An example of a Trifari signature
2. Examine the Style and Design
The design elements can reveal a lot about the jewelry's age. For instance, the geometric shapes and bold colors of Art Deco pieces from the 1920s differ from the floral motifs and pastel colors commonly seen in 1950s jewelry.
3. Consider the Materials Used
Vintage costume jewelry is typically crafted from non-precious metals and imitation gemstones. However, specific materials can indicate the era. For instance, Bakelite gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, while Lucite became prominent in the 1950s.
Some really nice 80s pieces, most are signed!
4. Research Online Resources
Leverage the power of the internet! Online communities, forums, and websites dedicated to vintage costume jewelry offer extensive catalogs, images, and valuable information about different designers and their creations. Use these resources to compare your piece to others and narrow down its age. At Sparklesplendor.com and Sugarny.com you'll find a comprehensive catalog of exquisite vintage pieces, helpful images, and in-depth information on different designers and their creations.
5. Consult a Professional Appraiser
If you possess a particularly valuable or rare piece of vintage costume jewelry, consider consulting an expert or appraiser. Their specialized knowledge can provide you with more accurate information and help authenticate your cherished piece.
Enjoy the Exciting Detective Work!
Dating vintage costume jewelry can be an enjoyable and rewarding endeavor. Uncover the history and stories behind these exquisite pieces as you delve into the past. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at Sparklesplendor.com and Sugarny.com
By following these tips, you'll become a pro at dating vintage costume jewelry, and your collection will continue to amaze and fascinate you and others. Happy hunting!
