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When buying and selling costume jewelry, it’s common to encounter pieces that need repair or restoration. Over time, these items can accumulate, leaving you with a pile of jewelry that requires attention. The challenge lies in determining which pieces are worth the time and money to restore and which are better left as-is. Here’s a guide to help you evaluate and manage these items effectively.
Restoration vs. Repair
There’s a distinction between restoration and repair in the world of costume jewelry. Restoration involves bringing a valuable, damaged piece back to wearable condition, often requiring professional intervention, such as soldering a pin back or reattaching a clasp. Repair, on the other hand, is simpler, like gluing a rhinestone back in place.
Restoration is worth considering if the piece’s value justifies the cost. For example, high-end items like a 1940s Boucher enameled bird brooch or a 1930s Trifari art deco bracelet may be worth investing in professional restoration, including laser soldering or stone replacement. Similarly, restringing or re-knotting valuable strands, such as Chanel pearls or Miriam Haskell beaded necklaces, can be worthwhile. However, for less valuable pieces, the cost of restoration may outweigh the potential resale value.
Organizing Jewelry for Restoration
Staying organized is key to managing jewelry that needs attention. Categorize items based on the type of repair or restoration required:
- Professional Restoration: High-end pieces that need expert work, such as soldering or clasp replacement, go in one bin. These are prioritized for restoration to maximize resale value.
- DIY Repairs: Items that require simple fixes, like gluing stones or reattaching components, go in another bin. These can be tackled as craft projects.
- Cleaning: Pieces that need cleaning are placed in a separate bin and addressed promptly.
- Beads and Strands: Beads or necklaces that need restringing or have missing components are grouped together. Valuable strands are sent out for professional restringing, while less valuable ones may be used for parts or sold in craft lots.
When to Let It Go
Not every piece is worth restoring. Some items, despite their rarity or appeal, may be too damaged or costly to repair. For example, a 1930s Maggy Rouff dragon clip with a replaced hollow pearl belly may not be restorable to its original condition. In such cases, selling the piece as-is can still yield a good return, especially if buyers are interested in the components or have the means to restore it themselves.
Similarly, Trifari fruit salad pieces missing components or designer items with hard-to-replace stones may not be worth the effort. Selling them as-is can be a practical solution, allowing you to move on with cash in hand.
Key Takeaways
- Research Value: Before investing in restoration, research the piece’s value to ensure the cost of restoration doesn’t exceed its potential resale price.
- Stay Organized: Categorize jewelry based on the type of repair or restoration needed to streamline the process.
- Know When to Let Go: Some pieces, despite their appeal, may not be worth restoring. Selling them as-is can be a better option.
- Focus on High-End Pieces: Unless you specialize in high-end costume jewelry, most of your restoration efforts should focus on valuable, collectible items.
By following these guidelines, you can make informed decisions about which pieces to restore, how to organize your projects, and when to let go of items that aren’t worth the effort. This approach not only saves time and money but also ensures that your jewelry collection remains manageable and profitable.
About the Author: Pamela Siegel is a freelance writer, author, and expert in antiques and collectibles. She is the co-founder of Costume Jewelry Collectors Int’l (CJCI) and the proprietor of Chic Antiques by Pamela. With over two decades of experience, she shares her expertise through books, online writing, and print publications.
