Vintage Semi Precious Stone Jewellery

We specialise in sourcing authentic vintage jewellery featuring semi-precious gemstones. Each piece in our vault is hand-inspected by our in-house specialists to ensure its historical era, metal purity, and stone integrity are accurately represented.

How do I know the gemstones are real and not synthetic?

Every piece in our collection undergoes a rigorous multi-point inspection. We look for natural inclusions (tiny internal "flaws" that occur in earth-mined stones), specific color zoning, and thermal conductivity. Unlike modern mass-produced "simulated" stones, vintage semi-precious gems carry the unique mineral signatures of the era they were mined in.

What is the difference between "Vintage" and "Antique"?

In the jewellery industry, Antique refers to pieces that are at least 100 years old (currently anything pre-1925, including Victorian and Edwardian eras). Vintage generally refers to pieces that are between 20 and 99 years old, spanning movements like Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern, and the bold styles of the 1970s and 80s.

Are vintage gemstones durable enough for daily wear?

It depends on the stone's hardness, measured on the Mohs Scale. Stones like Quartz, Garnet, and Jade are quite durable ( $Mohs \approx 6.5–7$ ) and great for daily wear. However, softer stones like Opal, Amber, or Turquoise require more care and should be kept away from harsh chemicals and heavy impact to preserve their finish.

Is your jewellery cleaned or restored before sale?

We practice "sympathetic restoration." This means we professionally ultrasonic clean the metals and check the security of all stone settings. However, we take care to preserve the patina—the natural oxidation that develops over decades—as this is a key indicator of a piece's age and is highly valued by collectors.

How should I care for my vintage semi-precious pieces?

We recommend the "Last On, First Off" rule. Put your jewellery on after applying perfume or hairspray, and take it off before bed or exercise. To clean most stones, a soft cloth and lukewarm, mild soapy water are sufficient. Avoid steam cleaners, as the heat can fracture certain semi-precious minerals.

Why is buying vintage jewellery considered "sustainable"?

Choosing vintage is the most eco-friendly way to shop. It eliminates the need for new mining, reduces carbon emissions associated with modern manufacturing, and prevents high-quality craftsmanship from ending up in landfills. It is a beautiful way to participate in the circular economy.

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