Frequently Asked Questions

Every piece in our collection is personally examined before listing. Our verification process considers multiple factors: construction techniques consistent with the era, metal composition and patina, clasp and finding styles (which evolved distinctly across decades), and any maker's marks, hallmarks, or cartouches present. We cross-reference marks against established reference guides for American, European, and international jewelry.

We are transparent about what we know and what remains unknown — many beautiful vintage pieces were unsigned, particularly costume jewelry from the mid-20th century. In those cases, we date and attribute based on design characteristics and construction evidence, and we say so clearly in the listing.

For precious metal pieces, we examine karat stamps (10K, 14K, 18K, 750, 925, etc.), assay office marks, maker's cartouches, and patent numbers. For signed costume jewelry, we look for designer signatures, copyright symbols (©), and country-of-origin stamps — all of which help narrow the date of manufacture. British pieces often carry full hallmark suites including date letters, which allow precise dating. We note all marks found in the product description.

Natural gemstones in fine jewelry pieces are identified to the best of our ability based on visual examination and, where relevant, loupe inspection. We do not provide independent gemological laboratory certificates unless specifically noted in a listing. If a stone's identity is uncertain, we describe it as it appears (e.g., "deep blue stone consistent with sapphire") rather than making unverified claims. If a GIA or other lab report is important to your purchase, please reach out before buying.

We use the following condition grades, always described in detail within each listing:

• Excellent: Minimal to no wear; retains original finish, stones, and findings. May show the lightest signs of age consistent with careful storage.
• Very Good: Light wear consistent with occasional use. All elements intact; finish largely original with minor surface marks or slight patina.
• Good: Moderate wear or minor imperfections (small scratches, slight plating wear, minor stone chips) that do not detract from the overall beauty or wearability of the piece.
• Fair / As-Is: Noticeable wear, repairs, or missing elements. Priced accordingly and fully disclosed. Ideal for collectors or those who plan professional restoration.

We photograph every piece under consistent lighting to show condition accurately, including close-ups of any flaws noted.

Vintage and antique jewelry carries the beautiful evidence of a life well-lived — and that is part of its character. Minor patina, slight softening of detail, or gentle wear to gilding are natural and expected in pieces that may be 50 to 150 years old. We believe these qualities add authenticity and story, not detract from value. That said, we never misrepresent condition, and significant flaws are always disclosed and photographed.

Each piece is individually wrapped and cushioned to prevent movement during transit. Brooches, pendants, and earrings are secured against padded inserts; rings and bangles are wrapped to protect prongs and settings. All orders ship in a rigid outer box — never a padded envelope — to protect against crushing. We take the same care with a $20 brooch as we do with a $300 ring.

We currently ship within the United States only. Orders are typically processed and dispatched within 1–3 business days. Standard shipping generally arrives within 5–8 business days after dispatch; expedited options may be available at checkout. You will receive a tracking number as soon as your order ships.

We are working toward international shipping and hope to offer it in the future. If you are located outside the US and are interested in a specific piece, feel free to contact us — we will do our best to assist on a case-by-case basis.

We want you to love what you receive. If a piece does not meet your expectations, please contact us within 7 days of delivery. Items must be returned in the same condition as received, unworn and unaltered, with original packaging. Because each piece is one-of-a-kind, exchanges are not always possible — but we will work with you to find a resolution.

Please note that condition descriptions and photographs are provided in good faith to give you a complete picture before purchase. We encourage you to review all listing images and reach out with any questions prior to buying.

In the rare event that a piece arrives damaged in transit, please photograph the packaging and the item immediately and contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with you promptly to file a shipping claim and find a fair resolution.

Grace Credit is our loyalty program — a way of saying thank you to the collectors and customers who return to Reserved Grace. As you shop, you earn Grace Credit that can be applied toward future purchases. It is our small way of honoring the relationship we build with each customer over time.

Ready to join? Become a member here to learn more about Grace Credit benefits and get started.

Reserved Grace hosts live selling events where curated pieces are presented in real time. During a live show, items are described in detail — provenance, condition, measurements, and any notable features — and offered to viewers who bid or claim pieces as they are shown. It is an interactive, community-driven experience that brings the thrill of the antique market directly to you.

Follow us on our live selling platform and turn on notifications so you never miss an event. During the show, you can claim or bid on pieces in real time through the platform's comment or bidding system. After the show, winning items are invoiced and must be paid promptly to secure your purchase. Details on upcoming shows are announced via our social channels and newsletter — we recommend subscribing so you are always first to know.

Store pieces individually in soft pouches or compartmentalized jewelry boxes to prevent scratching and tangling. Keep vintage jewelry away from direct sunlight, humidity, and temperature extremes — all of which can accelerate tarnish, weaken adhesives in costume pieces, and damage delicate stones. Avoid storing silver pieces in open air; anti-tarnish strips in your jewelry box are a simple and effective precaution.

Less is more with vintage pieces. For most items, a soft, dry cloth is sufficient for light polishing. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and harsh chemical dips — these can loosen old settings, damage foil-backed stones, dissolve adhesives in costume jewelry, and strip original patina that contributes to a piece's character and value. If a piece needs deeper cleaning, we recommend consulting a professional jeweler experienced with antique and estate jewelry. When in doubt, reach out to us — we are happy to advise on a piece-by-piece basis.

Many vintage pieces are beautifully wearable and built to last — but they benefit from mindful handling. Remove jewelry before bathing, swimming, applying perfume or hairspray, and sleeping. Chemicals in cosmetics and chlorine in water are particularly hard on plated finishes and delicate stones. With reasonable care, your vintage pieces can be enjoyed for another generation.