Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How can you tell how old jewelry is?

1 Answer
How can you tell how old jewelry is?
To tell how old jewelry is, you can compare its stylistic features to images of pieces featured on trusted online resources (engraving on a signet ring, for example, may indicate that a piece dates back at least to the 1900s). Another option is to look for a stamp or hallmark that indicates who the maker is. With some research, you may be able to determine where a manufacturer was located and how long the company was in business. It’s important to note that not all vintage or antique-looking jewelry is actually vintage or antique. Experts recommend that you take the jewelry to a certified appraiser who can evaluate and date the piece. Shop a range of jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Shop for Antique Japanese Jewellery on 1stDibs
Early 20th Century Japanese Jewelry Box
Located in Dallas, TX
This early 20th century Japanese jewelry box is made of black lacquer and decorated with beautiful
Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Antiquities

19th Century Japanese Jewelry Box in Lacquer Decor with Birds
Located in Marseille, FR
Japanese jewelry box in lacquer decor with birds (waders) decorated on all sides XIXth with handle
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Lacquer

Japanese Jewelry Box, 1900
Located in Marseille, FR
Jewelry box Japan 1890/1900 decorated with a hundred Menukis in embossed brass and inlays measuring
Category

Antique 19th Century Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Rosewood

Small Japanese Marquetry Cabinet Yosegi Zaiku 19th Century
Located in Beuzevillette, FR
Very beautiful Japanese jewelry cabinet in Yosegi-zaiku marquetry composed of six drawers. The
Category

Antique 19th Century Japanese Furniture

Materials

Wood

Rare Shakudo Bunny Rabbit Pendant Necklace Japan Antique Victorian, circa 1870
Located in New York, NY
swords was prohibited in 1877, Japanese jewelry artisans transferred their skills to jewelry making. the
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Japanese Aesthetic Movement Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Mixed Metal, Shakudo

Dragon Foo Dog Shakudo Earrings Samurai Warrior Japan 14 Karat Gold Victorian
Located in New York, NY
and copper. After the wearing of swords was prohibited in 1877, Japanese jewelry artisans transferred
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Japanese Aesthetic Movement Dangle Earrings

Materials

Gold, 14k Gold, Mixed Metal, Shakudo

Shop All