20 Questions To Ask Your Antique Jewellery Dealer Before You Buy

Whilst even the best dealers will not know the exact provenance of every piece they have – the mystery is part of the charm of antique jewellery – they will be able to share all sorts of valuable information to help you fall in love with (and understand) a piece of jewellery before you buy.

Appreciate the context

• What do you know about the history and provenance of this piece of jewellery?
• Is there any particular symbolism attached to it?
• Is it a replica from an earlier era?
• What makes it valuable or special? 

Get into the detail

• How do I know it is authentic?
  
• Can you talk me through the hallmarks, or lack thereof?
  
• Which materials – metals, gemstones, adhesives – have been used in this piece?
  
• Can you explain what you know about the carat, clarity, colour and cut of the stone?
  
• Do the gemstones come with certification?
  
• Have the gemstones been treated?
  
• (For diamonds only) What do the ‘points’ mean?
  

Consider the practicalities

• Is it robust for everyday wear or for occasional use only?
  
• Can you explain how to take care of it and clean it safely? 
  
• Why does it cost what it costs?
  
• Will it hold its value?
  
• (For rings only) What size is it?
  
• Can I resize it, and do you handle that?
  
• I like it, but I’d like to make adjustments (such as change the colour of gold). Can this be done?
  
• Can I return or exchange it for free?
  
• What do I need in order to insure it?