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Vintage jewelry has taken center stage in the fashion world. Many women are raiding their grandmothers' jewelry boxes to find diamond necklaces pendants and other fashionable pieces that probably haven't been worn for decades. They also find these unique antiques online and at estate sales.

Regardless of how you have discovered antique jewelry, there are some things you should know before purchasing (or selling) the piece. These are also general guidelines for people who are rediscovering their family's vintage gemstones, since understanding their value is essential.

At the outset, it is crucial to get your jewelry appraised. You need the expertise of a professional since there have been all sorts of paste jewels on the market that have been substituted for authentic ones. If you don't have the proper background and equipment, you really can't tell the difference between a real diamond and a faux stone.

Make sure that your appraiser gives you a written estimate of the jewelry's value. This is important even if you're just rediscovering your grandma's jewels because you will need this estimate for tax and insurance purposes. It will also provide valuable information about the quality and condition of the gems and whether they have any damage.

If you are buying antique jewelry as an investment, you need to know how much the piece is worth in today's market. The overall value depends on the value of the gems and precious metals in the piece, as well as the style and designer, and how the market values pieces of that type currently.

There are a few different ways to find out what your diamond necklace pendant is worth. Online websites and books on antique jewelry value can give you a rough estimate of your jewelry's market value. For a more accurate estimate, an appraiser with vintage jewelry experience can be employed. Most charge a small fee, but the accuracy will be worth it.

Once you know the value of the vintage jewelry, including the values of the individual jewels, the precious metals that make up the piece, and its market value, vintage appeal, and popularity, you can make a decision about whether buying the piece will be a good investment.