How do I care for antique gold jewellery?

Clean these pieces gently with a soft brush and warm soapy water, avoiding harsh chemical dips that damage pearls, opals, and foil-backed stones. Store items individually in soft pouches to prevent softer gold alloys and gemstones from scratching against each other.

Can I wear Victorian rings every day?

Many sturdy 18ct gold rings withstand daily wear, but antique settings with delicate claws or softer gems like opals and pearls require extra care. Remove rings before heavy lifting, gardening, or swimming to protect the structure. Have a professional jeweller inspect the prongs and band annually to ensure the stones remain secure.

What does gold purity tell me about an item?

British pieces from the nineteenth century frequently utilise 9ct, 15ct, and 18ct gold, reflecting the specific legal standards of the period before 15ct was replaced by 9ct and 14ct in later decades. Higher karat values offer a richer yellow tone and greater resistance to tarnishing. Maker marks and hallmarks help confirm the exact metal purity and assay office origin.