The question might be answered quickly, but according to jewelry experts, not everyone likes estate or antique jewelry or has what it takes to wear it properly. So if you are picking out accessories for your wedding day or your jewelry collection, take into account that what makes antique, estate or vintage jewelry stand apart is also what can determine if any kind of jewelry style is for you.
Antique jewelry stands out because its style is not contemporary. It usually showcases designs that are not commonly seen anymore and recalls a style or fashion that allows the wearer to create a look authentically linked to a past era. A lot of brides love old jewelry styles and even create an antique theme to their wedding, along with their maids of honor’s dresses and jewelry and the style of jewelry the groom wears.
Antique jewelry might stand out too much for some
Still, some brides like to go for more contemporary styles of jewelry with current trends and a modern twist. Antique jewelry conveys elegance and charm, the kind that only belongs to days past and it might stand out a little too much for some brides. So it’s always wise to consider the style and the occasion for your jewelry.
Antique jewelry is one-of-a-kind
If you own an antique piece you can be sure that you will never sit next to someone wearing that same piece, and that sense of exclusivity is enough for some to prefer antique or vintage styles over more current ones. Even if there were more than one piece created 100 years ago, not all of them would have survived and the chances of finding two of the same antique pieces is small.
Also, its history makes it far more interesting than a contemporary piece made last year. One can only imagine what was going on in the life of the original owner of an art deco piece or the social restrictions that an antique piece must have “experienced” in the past. This bestows the piece with an aura of meaning and intrigue, and it makes for a great conversation starter.
Antique jewelry requires more care
If you prefer “wash-and-wear” jewelry, go for new. Buyers of antique jewelry must understand that special care may be required of specific pieces. For example, many Georgian pieces have closed foil-backed mountings. These pieces should not be exposed to moisture, as it can get behind the stones and deteriorate the foil.
Another strong point against antique jewelry is that it can be harder to prove the authenticity of the piece’s quality and history. Reason why it’s always advisable to purchase antique pieces in trustworthy jewelry distributors
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