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Classic costume jewelry is something that has been around for decades, with its popularity coming and going in waves. Whether you're looking to sell your vintage gems or just want to know how they retain their value, here's a look at the things that make costume jewelry valuable.

History & Quality of Craftsmanship

The history behind a piece of costume jewelry can help determine its value. They used to be made with high-quality materials such as sterling silver, precious and semi-precious stones, rhinestones, and glass.

The quality of the craftsmanship also matters. Pieces with intricate details such as hand-painted enamel, rhinestones cut in interesting shapes, or well-preserved antique finishes typically hold their worth better than those without these features. This way, you can be sure you'll fetch a good price if you decide to part with your vintage jewelry.

Designer & Brand Name

Pieces designed by well-known brands or fashion designers tend to keep their value better than those produced by unknown makers. Some of the most popular vintage costume jewelry brands leave some form of "mark" or hallmark on their pieces, making them easy to recognize.

Buyers are often willing to pay more for pieces from these brands due to their rarity and quality craftsmanship.

Some jewelry pieces, like vintage crown earrings, have become highly collectible over the years due to their unique design and eye-catching sparkle. Signature filigree beads have also become popular amongst collectors because of their intricate detail and timeless elegance.

Rare Materials & Stones

Vintage costume jewelry that contains rare materials or stones tends to be more valuable, especially if they are still in good condition and have been well-maintained. Pieces made with rare metals like silver or gold will fetch a higher price than those made with base metals such as copper or brass.

Similarly, gemstones like sapphires and rubies tend to be worth more than glass beads or plastic cabochons — especially if they are set into precious metal settings rather than less expensive base metals.

Additionally, pieces that contain multiple rare stones, such as diamonds, emeralds, and rubies, will usually be worth more than those with only one type of stone set into them. These are highly sought-after items that can be resold for a higher price.

Knowing what makes vintage costume jewelry valuable can help you determine which pieces you should set a higher price for, making sure you get the best return on your investment.

Talk to a vintage costume jewelry buyer for more information.