Is custom jewelry worth anything?

Need a boredom-buster activity? Clean out your jewelry box and find unwanted items that have value. 

Now it's time to take on that jewelry box! If it looks anything like mine its a messy combination of beautiful fine jewelry, fashion or costume jewelry, homemade masterpieces that maybe include some broken painted noodles, and some items I'm not sure where they came from.  Something that you think is worth nothing could be worth thousands, while some pieces you think are worth a lot are worth nothing. And of course we all know that there are some sentimental pieces that no matter the actual dollar value are priceless.

Have some things you want to sell? First decide if they have value. If you are unsure we have more advanced ways to tell in the store and are always willing to take a look and let you know.  So you might ask - how do I know if my jewelry is real or costume?

There are several things you can look for at home to get a good start:

1. LOOK FOR HALLMARKS

One of the first things you can do when you acquire a new piece of jewelry is to look for hallmarks. One hallmark will generally tell us the metal content of a piece, and the other (if there is another) will tell us either the country of origin, designer, or manufacturer. These markings are usually located on the clasp of a necklace, the inside of a ring or bracelet, or the post of an earring. Unless the item is over 100 years old or the hallmark has worn off, all fine jewelry should have some type of hallmark and you may need a pair of readers or a jewelers loop to see it. Here are some common fineness stamps for precious metals:

Gold: 22K, 18K, 14K, 10K, 916, 750, 585, 375
Platinum: 950, 900, PLATINUM, PLAT
Silver: 925, 800, silver, sterling

2. LOOK FOR WEARING

Fake chains feel fake. Solid gold jewelry is very smooth, heavy and consistent throughout. For instance, if you have a gold colored chain that has a darker color or even a silvery color showing through on parts that see heavy wear, this is likely a gold plated chain and not very valuable. When solid gold or platinum jewelry wears down, the part showing through should still be the same color.  However, this is not the case for white gold.

The longer and heavier your gold or platinum jewelry is, generally the more valuable it is - as long as it is actually made of precious metals. This is not fool proof because there are many metal out there that are heavy.

3. TRY THE MAGNET TEST 

Genuine gold will not attract a magnet. The magnetic test is the most convenient and portable test for genuine gold. The stronger the magnet, the better the test results. Imitation gold and other alloys will attract the magnet. Jewelry can appear to be gold, when in fact the surface is simply gold in appearance.

Sterling silver will not attract the magnet either.  he most common alloy used to harden the silver is copper, which is not magnet either.  Also note that sometimes silver items - say bought from a vendor on the beach during your last vacation - may be marked with the 925 hallmark but will fail the magnet test - these items are marked falsely and are most likely made of another metal. Probably super cute though!

Note: Often times, a clasp can be made of a different material that may be magnetic - so be sure to check both the clasp and the chain.  

4. INSPECT THE PRONGS

If your jewelry has any kind of stone in it a good way to tell the quality is to look closely at the prongs. Some higher quality costume jewelry uses prongs just like in fine jewelry, but a lot of the stones are glued into place. If you have a cameo that looks like it is glued into the setting with no prongs holding it in, this is likely costume jewelry and not valuable. Fine jewelry will be well crafted, with each stone set in an intricate bezel or prong setting, pearls being one of the only exceptions.

5. CONSULT AN EXPERT

If you come up with some pieces that you're unsure about it is always best to consult an expert! We have more advanced ways of testing the pieces to know if they are real or costume. Bring them in and we will be happy to have a look.

Did you come up with some pieces you'd like to have evaluated for sale? You can book an appointment with us online!

Book An Appointment

Values shown in this price guide reflect the actual selling price in the venue stated (in parenthesis after the value). Prices realized for similar collectible jewelry sold in other venues may be higher or lower depending on market fluctuations and geographical region.

Alice Caviness Crystal Necklace & Bracelet Set

Crystal necklaces were like strands of pearls, everyone had one in the 1950s. Being so versatile, they are popular with fashionable ladies today as well.

Value: $62 (eBay 7/06)

- Vactoria (eBay ID)

Bogoff Rhodium Plated Rhinestone Bracelet

Bogoff bracelets are harder to find than other pieces by this manufacturer.

Value: $65 (eBay 10/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Ciner Deco Revival Bow Brooch

This piece has an Art Deco influence but it's actually much newer, which is referred to as Deco Revival.

Value: $85 (eBay 9/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Ciner Bead Necklace with Frog Clasp

Ciner is a ​high-quality jewelry manufacturer still doing business today. Ciner vintage pieces are prized by collectors.

Value: $110 (eBay 9/06)

- Pamela Wiggins

Coro Candelabra Pin

This Coro design was patented in 1948.

Value: $125 (Ruby Lane - 2/10)

- Jay B. Siegel

Coro Indian Chief Brooch

This is a hard to find, desirable Coro piece, hence the high price. Most Coro items won't sell anywhere near this range.

Value: $383 (eBay 6/06, Seller ID: pagrace)

-Linda Heberling

Coro October Angel Duette Clips/Pin

From a series of angel birthstone Duettes and coordinating bracelets made by Coro in 1956.

Value: $125 (Ruby Lane - 10/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Corocraft Donkey Cart Brooch Pin

This is a popular Coro design patented in 1948.

Value: $145 (Ruby Lane - 2/10)

- Jay B. Siegel

DeMario Pin with Pine Sprigs and Cones

This DeMario piece was marked with the DeMario oval cartouche with a copyright symbol.

Value: $40.50

-Pamela Wiggins

Dior Simulated Jade Rhinestone Pin

This piece is dated 1964 and marked Chr. Dior Germany on the signature cartouche.

Value: $85 (eBay 10/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Dior Aurora Borealis Brooch

Christian Dior brooch signed "Chr. Dior 1958" featuring iridescent rhinestones known as aurora borealis.

Value: $165 (Ruby Lane - 8/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Eisenberg Originals Fur or Pin Clip

This pot metal piece fastens to a garment with a double-pronged clip known as a fur clip to collectors but found in patents noted as a pin clip.

Value: $146.25 (Vintage Costume Jewelry Show - Austin, TX 10/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Forbidden Fruits Grapes Pin and Earring Set

Made in Austria, all Forbidden Fruits pieces were constructed of plastic with embedded glass stones and metal leaf accents

These were originally sold on cards bearing the "Forbidden Fruits" name. They come in a variety of fruit and vegetable shapes. Pieces with opaque stones, like these, are not as common as other colors with sparkling rhinestones. However, the grapes motif, in general, is one of the most common styles of Forbidden Fruits jewelry.​

Value: $52.99 (eBay - 8/08)

- Jay B. Siegel

Miriam Haskell White Dangle Earrings

Value: $30 (Ruby Lane - 2/10)

- Jay B. Siegel

Haskell Brooch with Rows of Faux Pearls

Marked "Miriam Haskell" on an appliqued oval tag.

Value: $143.50 (ebay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Haskell Pastel Rhinestone and Pearl Earrings

Miriam Haskell pieces combining colored rhinestones with faux pearls are more uncommon than pearl and clear rhinestone pieces.

Value: $68 (Ruby Lane - 7/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Haskell Rhinestone Brooch with Leaf Accents Value

Marked "Miriam Haskell" on an appliqued oval tag.

Value: $50 (ebay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Haskell Red Rhinestone Earrings

Miriam Haskell pieces like these earrings made entirely of rhinestones are not commonly found.

Value: $85 (Ruby Lane - 10/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Haskell Turquoise Bead Necklace

Marked Miriam Haskell on the necklace hook and on the back of the findings.

Value: $148.50 (ChicAntiques.com 10/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Hollycraft 1958 Brooch & Earring Set

Marked "Hollycraft Copr. 1958." Large foiled cabachons are often referred to as "cat's eye" stones by collectors.

Value: $89.77 (eBay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Hollycraft Necklace Blue & Green Rhinestones

This is an unusual color combination for Hollycraft jewelry.

Value: $95 (Austin Antique Mall 10/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Hollycraft Green Rhinestone Brooch

Hollycraft brooch in typical antique goldtone setting dated 1953 on the reverse.

Value: $75 (Ruby Lane - 10/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Juliana/DeLizza Elster Pearl & Crystal Necklace

Juliana jewelry is not signed, but select pieces can sometimes be found an original hang tag.

Value: $350 (Ruby Lane - 2/10)

- Jay B. Siegel

Juliana/DeLizza & Elster Watermelon Rivioli Parure

Parure is the collector's term for three or more matching pieces.

The large round stones in this parure are known as rivoli stones. The color of these glass stones is often referred to as "watermelon" by collectors due to their similarity to natural watermelon tourmaline. Juliana jewelry is not signed, but can sometimes be found with its original hangtag.​

Value: $512.99 (eBay 10/07)

- Pamela Wiggins

Juliana/DeLizza & Elster Parure

Parure is a French term for three or more matching jewelry pieces. 

Value: $711.99 parure shown (eBay 10/07); necklace only $362.60 (eBay 7/08)

- Pamela Wiggins

Juiana/DeLizza & Elster Blue Aurora Borealis Brooch

Aurora borealis (those with an iridescent finish) rhinestones were not introduced by Swarovski until the mid-1950s, which helps date many costume pieces.

Value: $40 (eBay 7/06)

Photo Courtesy of Vactoria (eBay ID)

Juliana/DeLizza & Elster Crystal Dangle Bracelet

Juliana is the collector's nickname for unsigned jewelry manufactured by DeLizza & Elster.

Value: $52 (eBay 7/06)

Photo Courtesy of Vactoria (eBay ID)

Juliana/DeLizza & Elster Emerald Green Set

DeLizza & Elster marked only select pieces of jewelry with "Juliana" hang tags leaving most unmarked.

Value: $100 (Orlando, FL antique shop 7/06)

Photo Courtesy of Jan (Discovering Juliana/D&E Group on Yahoo.com)

Juliana/DeLizza & Elster Red and Black Rhinestone Necklace

Juliana, manufactured by DeLizza & Elster, is unsigned but recognizable due to the construction of the piece.

Value: $200 (VFCJ Costume Jewelry Convention - 10/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Juliana/DeLizza & Elster Fruit Dangle Parure

The dangle beads on this set are often referred to as fruit. Parure is the collector's term for three or more matching pieces.

Value: $202.50 (eBay 10/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Juliana/DeLizza & Elster Zebra Stone Bracelet

Juliana is a collector's name for unsigned jewelry made by DeLizza & Elster. Select pieces were originally marked with paper hang tags.

This Juliana bracelet exhibits the typical five-link​ and band construction on the reverse.

Value: $125 (ChicAntiques.com - 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Kramer Fall Tone Brooch & Earring Set

Aurora borealis rhinestones indicate this brooch and earring set was made after 1955.

Value: $68 (Ruby Lane - 2/10)

- Jay B. Siegel

Kramer Faux Emerald Rhinestone Necklace & Earring Set

Signed "Kramer of NY" on the necklace, "Kramer" on the earrings. Rhodium plated.

Value: $71.00 (eBay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Kramer White Necklace & Bracelet Set

White jewelry was popularized by Dior in the 1950s, and other designers and manufacturers followed suit. 

Value: $58 (eBay 7/06)

Photo Courtesy of Vactoria (eBay ID)

Mazer Retro Rhinestone Bracelet

This style of jewelry is commonly referred to as "retro" by collectors and dealers.

Value: $63 (eBay 10/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Napier Vintage Wings Brooch and Earring Set

This Napier "boutique" jewelry set was made in very limited quantities and rarely comes on the market.

Value: $175 (Ruby Lane - 7/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Napier Black Rhinestone Brooch

Signed Napier brooch featuring black rhinestones with aurora borealis accents in a heavy goldtone setting.

Value: $65 (Ruby Lane - 7/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Napier Crystal Necklace

This Napier necklace made up of clear crystals and goldtone beads feature a flattering Egyptian Revival influence.

Value: $135 (Ruby Lane - 9/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Regency Green Barouque Pearl Bracelet Set

Oval baroque pearls were commonly used by Regency in a number of colors.

Value: $34.95 (eBay 9/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Regency Gray Rhinestone Bracelet

Regency signed bracelet featuring stones of exceptional quality.

Value: $75 (Ruby Lane - 7/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Regency Green Cabochon Necklace & Bracelet Set

Signed "Regency" on oval plaque. A set of two or more matching pieces is also referred to as a demi-parure.

Value: $65.99 (eBay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Reinad Asian Princess Brooch

This is a 1940s imitation of a very finely crafted and well-made Hattie Carnegie design. This one by Reinad, while beautiful, is not as nicely detailed.

Value: $85 (eBay - 8/08)

- Jay B. Siegel

Sandor Rhinestone and Filigree Maltese Cross Brooch

Sandor mark indicates jewelry manufactured by Sandor Goldberger. The terms brooch and pin are often used interchangeably with pieces like this one.

Value: $25.49 (eBay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Schiaparelli Necklace Set

Unsigned Schiaparelli necklace in excellent condition, unsigned bracelet with repair and single signed earring included for identification purposes.

Value: $275 (Ruby Lane - 2/10)

- Jay B. Siegel

Schiaparelli Rhinestone Dangle Brooch

Value: $225 (eBay 9/06)

- Pamela Wiggins

Schoffel Austria Pin and Earring Set

Schoffel pieces made in Austria are marked only with a crown logo, but have the look of other pieces often found marked "Made in Austria."

Value: $56 (eBay 7/06)

Photo Courtesy of Vactoria (eBay ID)

Schreiner Amber Rhinestone Earrings

Schreiner vintage pieces remain popular with collectors due to their beautiful use of stones and excellent craftsmanship.

Value: $45 (Ruby Lane 7/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Schreiner Bug Trembler Pin

This piece has wings mounted on springs making it move slightly when worn, thus the term "trembler."

Value: $46 (eBay 9/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Schreiner Art Glass Cabochon Brooch & Earring Set

Cabochons are the stones with rounded tops rather than facets. This set is unsigned but attributed to Schreiner due to construction characteristics.

Value: $100.99 (eBay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Schreiner New York Stars Brooch & Earring Set

Brooch is marked "Schreiner New York", earrings are not marked. Corners of the brooch turn upward for a three-dimensional effect.

Value: $73.50 (eBay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Schreiner Brooch with Red & Green Rhinestones

Brooch signed "Schreiner New York" featuring high-quality rhinestones.

Value: $125 (Ruby Lane - 7/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Selro Devil Charm Bracelet

Funky charm bracelets from the 1950s have been gaining popularity recently and prices are on the rise.

Value: $98 (6/06 IllusionJewels.com)

-Dotty Stringfield

Trifari Eagle Brooch

This piece is an example of Trifari's prime work. It is considered a rarity in the costume jewelry world and is highly sought by avid collectors.

In spite of this brooch being incorrectly labeled as a "jelly belly" in the online auction description and having a few minor condition issues, this piece brought top dollar on eBay. If it were a true jelly belly (a collector's term describing pieces incorporating clear lucite cabochons or components in the design), it would have sold for even more. A similar example with Lucite wings was documented selling in the $17,000 range at a live auction in years past.

Value: $7,300 (eBay 10/06)

- yankeeboy 44 (eBay ID)

Trifari Green Laurel Necklace & Bracelet Set

Mark (Crown over the "T" and no copyright symbol) dates these pieces to the late 1940s. Necklace and bracelet can be attached together for a longer necklace.

Value: $85 (eBay 6/06)

-Pamela Wiggins

Trifari Rhinestone Parure

This set consisting of a number of matching pieces would be referred to as a "parure" by collectors. It is in mint condition.

Value: $888 (eBay 8/06, seller ID: kaysglitz)

-kaysglitz

Trifari Weeping Willow Brooch

This is an extremely rare Trifari piece that came in several different colorations, including goldtone with no enameling.

Value: $1,292 (eBay 7/06 - Seller: roader54)

-Donna Taylor

Trifari Cranberry Red Dangle Brooch

A Trifari brooch of good quality, typical of Trifari's mass-produced pieces from the 1950s.

Value: $65 (Ruby Lane - 10/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

Vendome Pink Rhinestone Necklace

Vendome, a high-end division of Coro, was known for making beaded necklaces more often than rhinestone pieces like this necklace.

Value: $125 (Ruby Lane - 8/09)

- Jay B. Siegel

West Germany Red Rhinestone and Pearl Pin

A typical pin marked "W. Germany" made using stamped filigree, rhinestones and pearls. Similar pieces were made using a variety of stone colors.

Value: $45 (Ruby Lane - 10/09)

- Jay B. Siegel