Vintage Costume Jewelry Condition Ratings

Each piece of jewelry is rated according to condition. Although vintage costume jewelry was inexpensively made, many of the manufacturers first created fine jewelry. As a result, the quality can be surprisingly good. Quality is difficult to rate and is not always apparent in pictures.

Every attempt has been made to accurately describe each piece of jewelry. Please remember that your browser can affect color and appearance of jewelry. If you have questions about color, size, appearance, condition, or markings, please send me an e-mail.

Mint Condition - The item is new and never worn. It is in the original box with tags. This rating is seldom used.

Excellent Condition - The item has no missing or yellowing stones, no enamel or metal chips or flakes, no stone breakage or peeling, no fading, and no worn prongs or edges. Any repairs are virtually unnoticeable.

Very Good Condition - The item has very little wear, no missing, dead, or yellowing stones, and no peeling pearls. There may be slight wear especially on the back of the item or on the backs of earrings. There are only minor chips on enamel.

Good Condition - The item is in wearable condition. There may be poor foiling, spotting (pepper-looking spots), minor clouding, minor yellowing, minor darkening or graying stones, chipping, and moderate wear.

Fair Condition - The item has some damage including missing, dark, or yellowing stones. It is still wearable but may need repair.

Poor Condition - The item has damage and stone loss. It is usually only good for redesign or crafts.