Costume Jewelry Collecting

Recent Answers

2013-05-18 Jewelry, Gems, & Minerals - Antique Crested Ring from the Kaiser:

Hi Diane,  It's unfortunate that the original diamonds were set on a replica instead. Although there is still a chance that the diamonds can be restored to the original ring and the original ring be restored

2013-05-15 Jewelry, Gems, & Minerals - Stones with lead:

Hi Kim,    There are a lot if different coatings that are used on stones but not to protect from lead poisoning. I would suggest that if you have stones with lead in them do not use them for anything except

2013-05-10 Jewelry, Gems, & Minerals - Black Onyx and hear:

Dear Karin,     You best be prepared to replace the onyx if anything goes even slightly wrong.  Onyx can be damaged sometimes by a burnt look and light "bleached" areas and once in a while simply cracked

2013-05-09 Jewelry, Gems, & Minerals - Name on 14kt gold necklace:

Dear Jen,    First, thanks for the good photo. That always helps on my end. : )    The letter stamps do not refer to the quality of gold of your chain; the quality of gold is indicated by the 14k stamp

2013-05-08 Jewelry, Gems, & Minerals - soldering gold:

Dear Jilla,    The quick and easy answer is YES, you can solder 18k gold with 14k solders. Temperatures are generally compatible and strength is certainly suitable. Below is a link to a list of plumb gold(full