In this guide, we offer a pragmatic view on how to discern the true value of a piece of jewelry, whether antique, vintage, retro or contemporary.

Determining Factors for Antique and Vintage Jewelry:

• Materials and Precious Stones:
• Use of noble metals and authentic precious stones.
• Assessment of quality and rarity to indicate authenticity and age.
• Antiquity and Period:
• Appreciation of the added value of time and belonging to historical eras.
• Consideration of specific styles, such as Victorian elegance or art deco innovation, etc.
• Crafts and Design:
• Recognition of the importance of meticulous craftsmanship and elaborate details.
• Assessment of the uniqueness and attractiveness of the design linked to the skill of the artisans.
• State of conservation:
• Evaluation of wear and possible repairs.
• Importance of preserving the integrity of stones and settings to ensure durability.
• Signature or Mark:
• Recognition of renowned jewelers and brands of the time.
• The presence of a signature as an indicator of authenticity and quality.
• Rarity and Uniqueness:
• Assessment of the rarity and exclusivity of the jewel.
• Search for unique pieces on the market for greater authenticity.
• History and Origin:
• Relevance of the story behind the jewel.
• Importance of documentation and provenance that can be provided.
• Documentation and Certification:
• Importance of having authentic documents and certifications in the case of precious stones to authenticate the gemology of the piece.

Determining Factors for Contemporary Jewelry:

• Quality Materials:
• Use of high quality materials, such as gold and precious stones.
• Consideration of the authenticity and purity of metals to ensure durability.
• Desing and creativity:
• Valuation of originality and creativity in contemporary design.
• Recognition of contemporary designers and brands for their innovation.
• Brand and Prestige:
• Importance of the brand and its position in the contemporary jewelry market.
• Association of brand prestige with the perception of exclusivity.
• Fabrication process:
• Focus on modern manufacturing techniques and technology.
• Attention to details and quality of craftsmanship in contemporary production.
• Limited Edition or Special Collections:
• Limited edition launch strategies to increase exclusivity.
• Certification and Guarantee:
• Offering certifications that support the authenticity and quality of the stones.
• Guarantees offered by the brand to generate confidence in the buyer.

Considerations for Contemporary Jewelry:

Although we also find factors that can increase the value when purchasing a new piece of jewelry, you should know that you may not recover all of that value once it is yours, unless it is a very exclusive piece of jewelry or from high-level brands.

When you buy something that is trendy, it may not last in taste and may be an ephemeral fashion. It's something you pay now, but may never be able to get back. You will also pay for the Marketing and Positioning of the brand, which will add an extra cost that the brand will charge you to highlight the exclusivity and luxury, contributing to the perception of value, but which will fade once that jewel is yours.