How do I clean a vintage aquamarine?

Wash the pendant gently in warm soapy water using a soft brush to remove dust from behind the stone. Avoid harsh chemical dips that might damage delicate seed pearls or older gold alloys. Dry the jewel thoroughly with a soft cloth before storing it away from other pieces to prevent scratching.

Can I wear my pendant every day?

Aquamarine has good hardness, making daily wear acceptable if you treat antique settings with care. Take the necklace off before swimming, exercising, or sleeping to protect fragile chains and claw settings. Inspect the jump rings and claw tips periodically to ensure the stones remain secure in their original mounts.

How do I date an Edwardian pendant?

Look for characteristic Edwardian motifs such as garlands, bows, and intricate openwork platinum mounted over yellow gold. The presence of seed pearls combined with aquamarine often points toward the nineteen-tens. Chain styles and clasp types can also offer clues, though many older pendants were paired with replacement chains later in life.

What is the difference between Art Deco and Edwardian pieces?

Edwardian jewellery favours soft curves, organic floral motifs, yellow gold, and delicate millegrain wirework. Art Deco design shifts toward bold geometric lines, symmetrical platinum settings, and stark contrasts. Aquamarines in Art Deco pieces are frequently emerald cut or asscher cut, whereas Edwardian stones often feature softer oval or pear shapes.