18kt Gold in Jewelry: History, Significance, and Interesting Facts

18K gold has been used for jewelry since ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks. They appreciated its purity and ornamental use. During the Renaissance, 18K gold became popular for its quality and durability. Today, it is a standard for fine jewelry, containing 75% gold and often made with various gold alloys. The significance of … Read more

Gold Jewelry Marking: When Did It Start? A Guide to Hallmarks and History

Hallmarking of gold jewelry started in the 13th century in England. King Edward I introduced a law that mandated gold items be assayed for purity and craftsmanship. Each piece required a mark, specifically the symbol of a leopard’s head, before being sold to the public. In England, the Goldsmiths’ Company established a formal marking system … Read more

The History and Significance of Stamping 14K Gold Jewelry: When Did It Begin?

Stamping 14k gold jewelry began with the National Gold and Silver Stamping Act of 1906 in the USA. This law required jewelers to mark purity accurately. The practice of hallmarking started in the 13th century under King Edward I. Stampings ensure quality and authenticity in jewelry, reflecting historical significance in manufacturing. Stamping acts as an … Read more

Chanel’s Gold Plating: When It Stopped and Its Impact on Vintage Bags

Chanel stopped gold plating its jewelry in 2008. This change introduced gold-toned hardware. The switch aimed to maintain the brand’s classic style while enhancing durability. This decision highlights Chanel’s dedication to quality and aesthetics in its jewelry designs. The discontinuation of gold plating has significantly impacted the vintage bag market. Collectors now highly value those … Read more

Thick Gold Metal in Vintage Jewelry: What Year Did Makers Embrace This Trend?

Thick gold metal has been used in jewelry since ancient times, becoming very popular in the 1930s. Its softness allowed for creative designs. In the 1940s, ribbed gold tubes were trendy for bracelets. Gold-filled jewelry appeared, needing at least 5% gold by weight, following FTC rules. Gold’s historical significance remains high in vintage jewelry. During … Read more

Trifari Gold Ribbon Jewelry: Vintage Charm, History, and Production Year Insights

Trifari produced its famous gold ribbon jewelry mainly from the 1940s to the 1960s. Founded in the 1910s, Trifari gained recognition for its unique designs and high-quality craftsmanship. The brand’s use of floral motifs and rhinestones showcased the decorative styles of the vintage era in costume jewelry. The ribbon motif symbolizes elegance and femininity. Trifari … Read more

Pawnshops Weigh Gold Jewelry: What Measurements Are Used for Pricing?

Pawnshops weigh gold jewelry in troy ounces or grams. They use accurate scales that measure down to 0.01 grams. To determine payment, they consider the gold’s purity and the current spot price. They often use a gold calculator to ensure fair valuations for customers. Accurate measurements are essential in this process. In addition to weight, … Read more

Imitation Gold Jewelry: Types That Offer Elegance Without Tarnishing

Imitation gold jewelry includes several types. Common materials are brass, copper, and nickel. Gold-plated, gold-filled, and gold-painted jewelry also fall under this category. These types offer affordable alternatives while closely mimicking the appearance of real gold. Costume jewelry also falls under the category of imitation gold. It thrives on creativity and offers bold statement pieces … Read more