Sometimes it is the vintage and the retro that catches our eye after watching a period drama on TV, or seeing a celebrity cruise down the red carpet with a specific style of ring or necklace on. 

Or perhaps you are just switching up your style and want to add a little vintage flourish to what you wear.

Buying second-hand jewellery pieces is not only a significant investment, but it means that the jewellery will go on to live more than just one life.

Photo by Charisse Kenion on Unsplash

What are the benefits of buying second-hand jewellery?

In the world of fast fashion, there is a lot of fast and low-quality jewellery too. Earrings were cheap to buy – so you don’t mind if one goes missing. The stackable rings seem to tarnish in a matter of minutes. 

So when you consider buying second-hand jewellery, you are investing in something that is made to stand the test of time. It is usually a higher quality, made with real precious metals and real or high quality replicate gems.

Choosing to buy second-hand jewellery is also eco-friendly. When you take part in the second-hand cycle, it reduces the need for things like mining and the production of cheap jewellery, which has a positive impact on the environment.

Buying second-hand jewellery, especially antique jewellery, has become an increasingly popular choice for those seeking unique, high-quality pieces with character and history. Antique jewellery offers a level of craftsmanship and design rarely seen in modern pieces, often showcasing intricate detailing and materials that have stood the test of time.

What should you look for in authentic second-hand jewellery?

In the world of second-hand jewellery, you will likely come across your fair share of fakes. You must know how to spot fake jewellery. There are a few features that will make this much easier to do. 

Just keep in mind that if you are buying jewellery online, you might need to ask for some extra photos.

Hallmarks

The first thing you should do with any jewellery piece is looking for a hallmark. The hallmark is an indicator of the carat. For silver, this might look like .925, and for gold, it might look more like 14ct. 

Certification 

Depending on the stone, the metal, and the item’s origin, it might come with a certificate of authentication. Typically these will come from the WGI, GIA or IGI. It can be a sign of authentic jewellery. There might also be a certification from other places – make sure to research before purchase. 

Branding marks

For higher-end items, you might be looking for the brand name stamped into the metal. If you have your eye on a specific piece, and it has a brand hallmark, spend some time researching what you can about the company in question. 

Reputable 

If a price seems too good to be true – it usually is. With most vintage and second-hand pieces, you should typically expect to pay a decent amount. Search for online reviews about the store you intend to buy from before you part with any money. 

Most second-hand jewellery can be considered an investment. The precious metals can be melted down later and turned into something else. Alternatively, you can take care of the item and slowly stack your gold and jewellery up to a sizeable investment pile.

Is buying a fancy ring or necklace part of the bigger picture? If you are on a mission to change your style, read more: Give Yourself A Makeover On A Budget.