How do I clean old silver chains?

Warm water and a soft cloth will handle most surface dirt. Don't submerge anything with closed-back stones or foil settings, as water will ruin the backing. Silver dip is too harsh for antique pieces. A gentle silver polishing cloth works better to lift tarnish without stripping away the patina in the recesses.

I have an old beaded piece on a string that feels a bit loose, should I get it restrung or leave it alone?

Silk threads stretch and rot over the decades. A loose thread is a warning sign that they're about to snap, which risks scattering the beads. Take it to a jeweller for restringing. They'll knot the silk between each bead to prevent rubbing and ensure you only lose one bead if it breaks again.

Can a jeweller lengthen a short choker?

Yes, they'll usually add an extension chain to the back. This modification makes smaller pieces comfortable for modern necklines without altering the main front elements.

Why do some of the diamonds in these older Georgian pieces look quite dark or grey compared to modern engagement rings?

Georgian jewellers cut diamonds by hand. They used older styles like rose or mine cuts, which have fewer facets than modern cuts. These stones were meant to sparkle under candlelight rather than bright electric lighting. Many were also set against metal foils that tarnish over time, darkening the stone.

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Antique Necklaces from the 19th Century

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An antique necklace is an ornamental chain or string of beads worn around the neck, designed to sit against the collarbone or drape across the chest to display precious metals and stones.