Frequently Asked Questions

We use our vast knowledge to date each piece based on its materials, construction techniques, hallmarks, signatures, and cultural context. Some people may even refer to our ability to identify the age of our jewelry as diamond whispering! After decades of experience, vintage and antique pieces just speak to us — and by using our knowledge, experience, and network of resources, we can usually identify the age of each item. While we cannot guarantee the exact age of each piece, we can determine to the best of our ability when it was likely manufactured and during which era it was designed.

Our jewelry is purchased from dealers and estates around the world. We carefully select each piece we want in our inventory, which can be a very time-consuming process. It is incredibly hard to know the full story behind each piece of antique jewelry — it would take true detective work to recover the stories passed down through each owner. We do, however, love the pieces that carry engravings and dates, which give us a little connection to the past.

We offer the option of an appraisal to all of our clients, which can be used for insurance purposes. All you need to do is request one when you check out and we would be happy to provide it.

It depends on the item, but in general we do not separate rings from their center stones — that is the way they were originally purchased and worn. We understand that many people have family heirloom stones they would love set in an antique mounting, so it is certainly something we can discuss.

We are constantly on the hunt for new pieces to add to our collection, and new jewelry is added to the site all the time. Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Instagram for the most up-to-date news on what arrives.

Yes — we buy fine antique and vintage jewelry from all eras, as well as certain contemporary pieces. If you have jewelry you are considering selling, whether it is an entire estate collection or a single piece, please contact us.

Items purchased from our collection can be shipped out almost immediately. If the item requires sizing, it may take a few additional days.

Yes, we accept layaway on most of our items — the length of the plan depends on the piece in question. Please contact us and we can discuss the details together.

We accept deposits on items, but please keep in mind that they are non-refundable, as the item is held and unlisted for you. The length of the hold is decided case by case — contact us and we will do our best to make the purchase happen!

We accept all major credit cards, wire transfers, and PayPal. Please contact us directly for wire transfer instructions.

Shipping within the United States is free. International shipments are a flat $60.

Yes, we ship to most countries that FedEx serves. International customers are responsible for any additional duties, taxes, and/or tariffs that may be incurred during shipment.

Yes — as soon as we generate a shipping label, an email is sent to you with all of your tracking information.

We fully insure all shipments and send them with FedEx. All of our packages require a signature by an adult — if you are unable to be home on a weekday, let us know and we can arrange a weekend delivery instead. You can read about our full packing and insurance process on our Shipping & Insurance page.

We continuously strive to offer our customers the most exceptional antique jewelry and service, and we stand behind the authenticity and quality of every item we sell. If you are unhappy with your purchase for any reason, please contact us within 5 days of receiving your item and we will provide return instructions — then ship the piece back to us within 5 days, in its original condition, so we can expedite your refund.

Please note: rings that have been sized or altered in any way are not eligible for return, and layaway purchases are non-refundable due to the nature of the sale. Customers are responsible for return shipping; international customers are responsible for insured return shipment as well as any duties, taxes, or tariffs incurred by the return.

Sizing can generally be done within a few days to a week, depending on the ring.

Sizing costs approximately $50, depending on how much larger or smaller the ring needs to be. If you are unsure, contact us and we will be happy to advise.

Yes — most rings can be resized unless stated otherwise in the description.

We only work on pieces purchased through us.

Generally not. If you have a Victorian or Georgian ring that is close-backed or foil-backed, you shouldn’t submerge it in water, as the foil can tarnish and reflect a dark spot behind the diamond. Very few of our rings include this detail — but if you are ever concerned, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We do not have a retail location, but we offer viewings by appointment at our Great Neck, Long Island office — so that when you visit, you have our full attention and all the time you need with the pieces you have come to see.