Ever since I can remember, I've been captivated by objects. To me, they're not just material possessions; they're pieces of history, fragments of my story intertwined with the world's. While some may view consumerism and material goods as shallow pursuits, I've found profound meaning and enrichment in collecting beautiful things, particularly jewelry.
My journey into the world of collecting began in childhood, with Lisa Frank erasers and stickers, evolving through phases of pogs, Delias catalogs, and YM magazines. Each item held a significance, reflecting not only my evolving tastes but also the cultural backdrop of the time. While I've never been a hoarder, I've cherished these objects as pieces of my narrative, markers of where I've been and how I've grown.
In my early twenties, I stumbled into the jewelry business by chance, landing a receptionist job at a prestigious estate jewelry-buying firm in New York City. It was a revelation. Although I had been exposed to jewelry through the adornments of my mother and grandmother—women raised in the culturally rich Southern Baptist church tradition, known for its history of elaborate adornment, from large and stylized Sunday hats to impeccably applied lipstick, large pearls, and dressing to the nines—this experience was entirely different. Here, I encountered a treasure trove of history and craftsmanship: from tennis necklaces, engagement rings of diverse styles, period pieces, and colored gemstones from countries whose locations I couldn't even pinpoint on a map. Each piece told a story of its own.
I was most fascinated by the questions these pieces provoked. Who were their previous owners? Where did they originate from, and why were they being parted with? Through the process of touching, seeking, learning, and conversing with industry veterans, I delved into the rich history of each piece. This exploration granted me insights into why they were crafted the way they were and what they represented about the era and the individuals who once cherished them.
As I grow older and assess my relationship with jewelry, I find myself drawn to exploring contemporary designs. However, even as I appreciate these new creations, I still gravitate towards pieces with a rich backstory and a connection to the past. While modern designs are appealing, they often lack the depth and resonance that heirloom pieces possess.
My love for collecting extends beyond mere acquisition; it's about the thrill of the hunt, and the joy of discovering a piece that speaks to me. Sometimes, I don't even have a specific item in mind, but inevitably, it finds me. Through collecting, I hope to preserve and share the stories embedded in these treasures, bridging the gap between past and present.
Are you ready to begin or expand your collection? Here are some factors to keep in mind. We'll delve into each of these individually in upcoming posts.
1. Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on new pieces and stick to your budget to avoid overspending. Easier said than done, I know…trust me, I know! However, I have personally found it beneficial to gather comparisons or market insights to gauge what's available and at what price point. Browse auction sites like 1stDibs and Doyle and second-hand markets like The Real Real and Vestiaire. This way, you can avoid any unexpected costs when it comes time to make a purchase—or make adjustments to your savings plan as needed.
2. Personal Taste: Reflect on the styles, themes, and materials that resonate with you. For instance, I tend to prefer yellow gold, substantial over dainty, and antique or reclaimed diamonds, particularly in shapes like oval, marquise, or a combination known as 'moval' (similar to my engagement ring crafted by friends Erstwhile). Allison Bornstein popularized the concept of using style words to refine one's wardrobe. My chosen style words are elevated, thoughtful, smart, modern, and creative. I encourage you to consider these descriptors when considering jewelry, just as you would when selecting clothing and accessories.
3. Research: Take the time to research artists, designers, or historical periods associated with the pieces you're interested in. Understanding the background and context of each piece can enhance your appreciation and enjoyment.
4. Authenticity and Quality: Verify the authenticity and quality of each piece before purchasing. Look for reputable sellers or galleries with a track record of selling genuine items. It's important to keep this in mind, especially when buying through online platforms. However, I must add that most platforms are well-vetted, and I've never encountered any issues with them.
If you ever need recommendations for reliable dealers, feel free to reach out to me. With over a decade in the industry, I've built a network of trusted connections and would be happy to assist you in finding the right sources.
5. Condition: Examine the condition of the piece, particularly for vintage or antique pieces. Any damage or wear should be considered when assessing its value and suitability for your collection. When purchasing online, listings should include any damage to the item, and there should also be images of maker's marks included. If this information is missing, don't be shy - contact the seller and request additional photos.
Additionally, I'm available as a resource for assessing damage, determining what can be fixed, and providing guidance on what is acceptable based on the age and wear of the item.
6. Long-Term Value: Consider the potential long-term value of the pieces you're considering. While collecting purely for investment purposes isn't necessary, choosing pieces that are likely to hold or increase their value over time is wise. For further insights on resaleability and related factors as it relates to diamonds specifically, I encourage you to read my piece on lab-grown versus natural diamonds.
7. Maintenance and Care: Understand the maintenance and care requirements for each piece in your collection. Proper care ensures their longevity and preserves their condition for future enjoyment. For instance, it's important to note that soft gemstones like emeralds or opals should not be placed in an ultrasonic cleaning machine. Be proactive and ask about care protocols, including how often pieces should be cleaned, polished, etc.
Thank you very much for reading. As always, please feel free to comment or send me a message if there's anything I can assist you with or share my experiences on. I would love to hear from you!
Until next time…
xx Veronica
I try to stick to yellow gold and platinum if the piece is exceptional. I buy silver bangles because gold is too expensive. I have an Elsa Peretti heart open bangle and an Atlas open bangle.
I really enjoyed your article. My Mother and I love jewelry as well! Thank you for sharing your lovely memories and photos!