How do I clean antique gold earrings?

Use a soft brush with warm water and mild soap to remove everyday debris from the metal and settings. Avoid harsh chemical dips, particularly with softer gems like amber, opal, or pearl.

Are screwback earrings difficult to adjust?

The threaded mechanism allows you to turn the nut gently until the fitting rests comfortably against the earlobe. Take care not to over-tighten the screw, as this strains the vintage metal hinge.

What is the difference between old mine cut and modern brilliant cut?

Old mine cut diamonds possess hand-polished facets with a smaller table and a deeper pavilion. Their geometry reflects ambient light differently than the strict mathematical symmetry of modern stones.

How can I tell Edwardian pieces from Victorian ones?

Edwardian designs tend to favour lighter openwork, platinum accents, and botanical motifs reflecting a shift towards airiness. Victorian pieces often display heavier mass, darker garnets, or more solid gold construction.