The bad news on the financial front is that the U.S. dollar is dropping drastically and other markets are suffering just as much. The good news about this is that gold and other precious metals are gaining in value as a hedge against this type of inflation, which means that today there’s quite a market for antique jewelry as more and more see these pieces as an investment rather than just a one-time purchase.

There are a few interesting facts about buying and selling antique jewelry that you’ll want to make note of it. One is that it’s true that gold’s value is intrinsic, meaning that no matter what form it takes it’s still valuable. You can melt it, pounds it into bars, or form it into earrings and the basic value is still the same; a few ounces of fourteen-carat gold is going to be priced the same in whatever form it is. However, antique jewelry is more valuable than just the amount of gold it’s made with, since the workmanship and crafting of its form and design is part of what makes it a work of art rather than just a lump of metal.

There are certain styles and forms of antique jewelry that are usually more valuable than others. For instance, art deco designs from the early 1900’s are a popular brand for modern buyers as many women today appreciate the clean lines. Designs with a Victorian decoration are usually busier with more detail and decoration and are appreciated for their intricate embellishments.

There is more to antique jewelry than just the crafting of the metal itself. The gemstones that are used in each piece are also something that increases its value and there are some stones that are very rare and that are specific to certain time periods that you should also be on the lookout for. Cameos, agates, and other such additions also add to a piece’s value and appeal to a variety of buyers.

Some catalogs from over a hundred years ago are still in existence and you can see from their photos and descriptions just what types of pieces were popular during that time period. A Sears catalog from 1897 show many pieces of what would now be antique jewelry including a detailed starburst brooch inset with pearls, wedding bands with detailed engravings, and of course men’s pocket watches.

These types of pieces of antique jewelry are not just purchases to have and to wear but are real investments that may stand the test of time. Gold, precious metals, and gemstones have always seemed to stand the test of time when it comes to their value. While no one can really give you absolute financial and investment advice and nothing is certain when it comes to purchases, these types of antique jewelry pieces can be worth investigating. If nothing else you can always wear your investment on your collar, around your neck, or someplace else you’ll enjoy!