The Collectors
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Thursday 22 September 2005
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Over to Gordon Brown who is taking us into Aladdin’s cave - the brilliantly cut world of antique jewellery.
Over 40% of women collect jewellry - but what should they buy? Gordon visits Tasmanian Jeweller Paul Thompson for some inside info...
Antique is always a winner. Old bracelets were always hollow so you can tell if it is the real thing. The modern pieces are always solid. If you are buying an old bracelet check the wear and tear. You will pay almost twice as much per gram for an antique bracelet so always buy from a reputable dealer and make sure you get a receipt.
Pearls have a timeless quality. To tell the real from the fakes look at the size. Very large pearls have to be fakes as they would be in a museum if the were real! Cultured fresh water pearls are very popular these days.
The Australian Antique Dealers Association lists reputable dealers.
