Notes & stories
The School of Fine Jewelry
lessons in antique & vintage jewelry
JUL 2026
· Buying & value
Is It Real Gold? How to Read Hallmarks on Antique Jewelry
Learn how to read hallmarks, spot gold-filled or plated pieces, and tell Swedish crowns from Danish towers so you never overpay for a piece she...
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JUL 2026
· Hallmarks & dating
How to Date Antique Jewelry: A Practical Guide to the Eras
Learn how to read a piece of jewelry the way I do, from her back and metal to her clasp, cut and hallmark, so her...
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JUL 2026
· Diamonds
What Is an Old Mine Cut Diamond? A Collector's Guide
Learn how to spot an old mine cut by eye, why she glows differently than a modern diamond, and what she is really worth to...
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JUL 2026
Introducing Nextmine: A Circle of Collectors
I'm excited to introduce Nextmine, my new marketplace where collectors can buy and sell their pre-loved fine jewelry directly from each other, letting each piece...
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APR 2024
Why I love vintage jewelry
Discover why she believes vintage jewelry beats anything new, from the soul in her craftsmanship to the stories she carries and the sparkle she gives...
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APR 2024
· Necklaces & chains
All About The Antique Longguard Chain
Curious what those long chains on antique pocket watches were really for? I share how versatile they were, from holding watches to guarding against pickpockets.
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FEB 2022
· Buying & value
Why Gold Jewelry Is A Great Investment
Discover why gold has held her value for thousands of years, and how she can protect your savings while looking beautiful around your neck or...
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JAN 2022
Fede Hands As A Symbol In Antique Jewelry
Curious why lovers once wore clasped hands on their rings? Discover how fede hands traveled from ancient Rome to Victorian jewelry boxes, symbolizing love and...
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JAN 2022
· Bracelets
How To Find Your Bracelet Size
Find out how to measure your wrist properly and discover your true bracelet size, so she fits exactly the way you love her.
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JUL 2020
· Diamonds
The History Of The First Diamond Cuts
Come along on a journey through diamond history, from the raw point cuts of the 1300s to the romantic candlelit sparkle of the rose cut.
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APR 2020
· Hallmarks & dating
How To Read English Hallmarks
Ever wondered what those tiny symbols on your ring actually mean? I will show you how to read English hallmarks, so you can date her...
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APR 2020
· Care & cleaning
How To Clean Your Jewelry During A Pandemic
Curious which stones hate water and which ones can brave a good scrub? I will show you how to keep her sparkling safely through the...
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