Keep in mind that vintage jewelry isnt as old as antique jewelry. For a piece of jewelry to be considered vintage, it must be at least 20 years old. Once a piece has its 100th birthday, its considered an antique and might be even more valuable.
What qualifies as vintage jewelry?
In jewellery trade terms, vintage describes a piece that was made between 50 and 100 years ago. So at the time of writing, all jewellery produced between 1920 and 1970 is technically vintage.
How do I identify my costume jewelry markings?
Check for Hallmarks or Markings These markings are usually located on the inside of a ring or bracelet, the post of an earring, or the clasp of a necklace; if the clasp does not have a marking, chances are the piece is costume jewelry.
How can you tell how old gold is?
Check the ring for any markings, using a loupe or magnifying tool of your choice. If the ring is marked with KP instead of simply K, the rings age can be determined to be sometime after 1981, as the U.S. National Stamping Act was amended in 1981.