All that glitters ... what look out for when buying jewellery
Irish silver and Art Deco jewels are good investments. But always ask questions.
Article by Michael Parsons
https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/homes-and-property/fine-art-antiques/all-that-glitters-what-look-out-for-when-buying-jewellery-1.3187384
Claire Heaney, jewellery specialist, Ross’s Auctioneers & Valuers, Belfast
“My advice is so simple that it is perhaps a cliche – buy larger pieces, less often. Try to invest in the largest gemstone weights your budget allows for, putting your money into individual larger stones rather than pieces encrusted with smaller stones. Art Deco jewellery, typically incorporating platinum and diamonds, is well worth considering. Pieces from that period have strong linear designs that still look modern today. Jewellery from renowned design houses, known as ‘signed jewellery’ are a good investment and are sought after because of their exceptional quality. Examples include Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Boucheron, Patek Philippe and Rolex.
"Secure one-off pieces you are unlikely to find again, for example, an obscure Victorian piece with unusual detailing and mix of gemstones. With fine jewellery, unless budget allows it, it may not be wise to get too swept up with trends. That’s what good-quality costume jewellery is for, vintage and signed if possible.”
Claire Heaney, jewellery specialist, Ross’s Auctioneers & Valuers, Belfast
“My advice is so simple that it is perhaps a cliche – buy larger pieces, less often. Try to invest in the largest gemstone weights your budget allows for, putting your money into individual larger stones rather than pieces encrusted with smaller stones. Art Deco jewellery, typically incorporating platinum and diamonds, is well worth considering. Pieces from that period have strong linear designs that still look modern today. Jewellery from renowned design houses, known as ‘signed jewellery’ are a good investment and are sought after because of their exceptional quality. Examples include Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Boucheron, Patek Philippe and Rolex.
"Secure one-off pieces you are unlikely to find again, for example, an obscure Victorian piece with unusual detailing and mix of gemstones. With fine jewellery, unless budget allows it, it may not be wise to get too swept up with trends. That’s what good-quality costume jewellery is for, vintage and signed if possible.”
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