Dating Jewellery How to Date an Antique Ring An old ring rarely gives up its age through one clue alone. A hallmark may offer a year, but the stone cut, setting, shank, gallery, construction and wear should all support the same story. This is how to read those clues together. Explore Rings • Return to The Journal In this guide 01 — 10 Begin with the evidence Read the hallmark properly Examine the shank Study the setting & gallery Look at the stone cuts Read the construction Place it within...
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Dating Jewellery How to Identify Authentic Antique Jewellery Age rarely reveals itself through one detail alone. Hallmarks, construction, stone cutting, fittings, wear and design all leave clues. Learning how those clues work together is the best way to distinguish genuinely old jewellery from later reproductions and revival pieces. In this guide What makes jewellery antique? Start with the hallmarks Examine the construction Look closely at the stones Study the settings Clasps, hinges and fittings Look for believable wear Does the style fit the period? Repairs and alterations Common warning signs...
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Hallmarking A Guide to British Jewellery Hallmarks British hallmarks can reveal where a piece was tested, when it was made, who submitted it for assay and the precious-metal standard it met. Learning to read them is one of the most useful skills when examining antique and vintage jewellery. In this guide What is a hallmark? The principal British marks Metal and fineness marks British assay offices Understanding date letters Maker’s and sponsor’s marks Hallmarks on antique jewellery Why some pieces are unmarked How to examine a hallmark What is a...
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