× November brings warmth to the darker days. Its two birthstones, topaz and citrine, cover a generous colour range from golden and honey tones to fresh sky and deep London blues. Both appear across antique and vintage jewellery, from Art Deco step-cut cocktail rings to sculptural mid-century pieces. This guide explores what they are, how the colours came to be, the symbolism people attach to them, and how they show...

× October is a month of colour shifts. Autumn leaves glow and the skies deepen. Jewellery wearers turn to stones that echo this change. Unlike September’s single focus on sapphire, October offers two birthstones: opal and tourmaline. Each with its own story, symbolism and style. From the flashes of opal to the full spectrum of tourmaline, these gemstones bring individuality to antique and vintage jewellery. This guide explores their history,...

Birthstones bring colour, story and a personal touch to jewellery. Whether you’re choosing a gift or adding meaning to your own collection, this guide explains each month’s stones, how the lists evolved, and what to consider when buying secondhand or antique pieces. Below you’ll find the modern list used today, traditional alternatives you’ll often see in older jewellery, and practical notes on colour, symbolism, durability and care so you can...

Sapphire has been loved for centuries. The gemstone of deep skies, steadfast love and quiet strength. As September’s birthstone, it is a beautiful reason to celebrate this month with jewellery that carries meaning, history and elegance. Whether you are marking a birthday, an anniversary, or simply treating yourself, antique and vintage sapphire pieces offer something modern jewellery cannot. Stories set in gold and silver. This guide explores the history of...

Finding the right ring size sounds simple. Until the ring arrives and doesn’t fit. Whether you’re shopping for secondhand jewellery or investing in an antique piece, knowing your correct size is key to avoiding disappointment. But here’s the thing. Ring sizing isn’t always exact. Your fingers can change throughout the day, and even the style of the ring can affect how it fits. This guide will help you measure your...

  Hallmarks are small, stamped symbols that carry a lot of meaning. For anyone interested in vintage or secondhand jewellery, learning to read these marks can offer insight into a piece’s age, origin, and authenticity. Whether you’re exploring antique fairs, shopping online, or sorting through a family collection, hallmarking is one of the most reliable ways to understand the true value of a piece. In the UK and Ireland, hallmarking...

As sustainability becomes more than just a trend, many shoppers are rethinking how they buy jewellery. The rise of vintage, preloved, and secondhand jewellery offers a beautiful, ethical alternative to modern mass production. It doesn’t compromise on style or substance. Whether you’re browsing for a timeless gold ring or a one-of-a-kind silver pendant, choosing secondhand jewellery is one of the most powerful ways to support both the planet and traditional...

When shopping for secondhand or vintage jewellery online, you’ll often come across terms like “antique,” “vintage,” and “preloved” used interchangeably. But what do they actually mean, and why does it matter? Whether you're buying for sustainability, style, or as an investment, understanding the difference can help you shop with confidence. This guide breaks it down clearly so you know what to expect when buying antique, vintage or secondhand jewellery.  ...