When it comes to antique jewellery, the age of the piece and its historical significance is often a primary determinant of value. Likewise, a piece that is crafted with rare gemstones can also be quite valuable. Furthermore, the quality of workmanship and a successful design can be significant factors in determining an item’s value. Finally, provenance is an important factor as well – a piece with a connection to a famous person or event may fetch a higher price than an otherwise similar piece without such a link.

Choosing the Right Sales Channel
Ultimately, selling a piece of antique jewellery will come down to how much a buyer is willing to pay and whether it suits their style and interests. Options include a variety of online marketplaces, consignment shops, auctions or working directly with an antique dealer. Each has its advantages and considerations.

Moreover, working with a specialist will help buyers to understand the different styles and eras that make up the history of jewellery. This includes the early Victorian Romantic era of nature-inspired designs and locks, as well as the later Victorian Aesthetic era of star and crescent shapes and Renaissance Revival lockets. It also encompasses the Art Nouveau era of intricate platinum pieces with lace patterns and flowers, and the art deco period that saw bold geometrical patterns and angular gem cuts such as squares, pentagons, trapezoids, pave diamonds and caliber cut colored gemstones like rubies and sapphires.