WHAT MAKES AN ANTIQUE?

Antique Posted by Gerard McCabe on 06/03/2022
What Makes An Antique Jewellery Piece? 

The rich history of an antique piece is half the allure of buying it. When referring to history we mean not only its story, but also its age and the culture of the era in which it was created. 

Antique jewellery pieces are highly desirable items made so by nostalgia and memory. Yet so many people are confused as to the true characterisation of antique jewellery. There are several definitions that people can become confused by. We hear the word vintage and confuse it with antique. Or retro versus contemporary and think we are buying a legitimate antique jewellery piece. 

Antique Topaz & Emerald Brooch Circa 1865

Antique Topaz and Emerald Brooch Circa 1865

So What Makes Antique Jewellery?

The terms Antique, Vintage and Retro are often bandied about, without proper verification. Here at Gerard McCabe Jewellers, we have a strict process that verifies the legitimacy of a piece before we procure it for sale. Some simple rules to follow when searching out antique jewellery are: 

  •  It must be over 100 years old to be a confirmed antique. 
  •  It is always safest to have the piece confirmed and valued by an expert valuer.
  • Always check for quality, condition and age. These are the marks of true value. 

Gerard is always on the hunt for beautiful antique and period jewellery. Not only is it highly collectable, but it is also valuable for sentimental reasons. It has a wide appeal because of its uniqueness and is special because no two pieces are alike. We endeavour to ensure that all antique and period jewellery that we sell has been maintained to a high standard.

Antique Heart Bracelet

Antique Heart Bracelet

However, part of the allure of antique jewellery is the history and patina that accompanies its great age. An appraisal is given with each and every piece Gerard selects, so you know exactly what you are getting.

In the unlikely event that you have a problem with your antique jewellery, you can be reassured that we are with you for life.

All Gerard McCabe jewellery comes with a care plan so you know the best way to look after your jewellery at home. You are also entitled to our lifetime free jewellery cleaning and inspection service in-store.  

For fine jewellery to last a lifetime, it will require maintenance from time to time. We recommend that you visit a Gerard McCabe boutique periodically to have your jewellery cleaned and inspected.  If there is any damage or wear to your jewellery it can be identified at this time and appropriate recommendations made for the correct course of action.

We have a wide range of highly desirable antique and period pieces personally picked by Gerard. 

You can discover our unique Antique and Vintage jewellery range in our Adelaide Boutiques or in our online store.