Your Guide to Buying Unique Vintage Jewellery at Auction

Most people typically associate bid auctions with art or furniture, but have you ever considered buying jewellery at auction? If you’re in the market for a unique piece of vintage jewellery, auctions are a great way to find rare and unusual pieces.

So why choose a jewellery auction, instead of a trip to a jewellery shop or online retailer?

What are Jewellery Auctions?

Jewellery auctions are basically auctions like any other, except they are only focused on jewellery. This makes them a fantastic location to see lots of gorgeous jewellery items in one place, as well as an opportunity to speak with jewellery professionals about the items on offer or your own collection.

A common concern with jewellery auctions, both conventional and online, is whether there are sufficient quality checks in place to ensure the items are really as valuable as they seem. Some auctions are conducted by respectable organisers and include only reliable and responsible sellers, whereas others don't put in as much quality control. So, much like buying jewellery from a shop, you should do your homework beforehand and make sure it's where you want to spend your money.

Why Buy Jewellery at Auction?

1. A Wide Variety

Jewellery auctions are a treasure trove of unique pieces. Think period and antique jewellery with fascinating histories, and surprises from timeless modern brands like Dior and Tiffany, too.

If you’ve got your heart set on jewellery from your favourite time period and want the real thing instead of imitations from a fast fashion brand, jewellery auctions are the place to find it.

Antique emerald and diamond broach and bracelet

2. Rare and Unusual Finds

You may discover unusual designs and uncommon gemstone and material combinations at auction that don't usually make it into the catalogues of most jewellery stores or even the extensive ranges of the large retailers.

Antique regal dual rings in gold and silver

3. Great Value

Auctions are highly cost-effective and, if you do your homework, you can get some great discounts at an auction that you wouldn't be able to get from a typical seller.

Because the individuals at auctions know how much each item is worth, most items sold at auctions are sold at their market value rather than their retail price, which is often half or even one-third of their market price.

Gold based antique jewellery, ring and bracelet

How to Buy Jewellery at Auction

Before the auction, always thoroughly review the online catalogue of the items that will be available, so you know what you’re looking out for. That’s not to say you need to be an expert – there will be knowledgeable people on hand at the event to ask any questions. It just means that if you know the basics of jewellery styles, metals and gemstones, you will be able to locate the items of interest to you, and have the beginnings of an informed opinion on their worth.

Don’t forget to read our guide to buying at auction for more tips and tricks for finding your next favourite piece.