The Jewelry Detective: Identification & Restoration

hallmarks

The "Milk Smell" Test: Identifying Galalith (French Bakelite) When Simichrome Fails

Omg okay, real talk. You guys know that sinking feeling, right? When you’re at some dusty estate sale and spot a bangle…

Patricia Poltera January 16, 2026

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Testing

The Black Dot Secret: How to Identify Rare Georgian Paste Jewelry

ok literally nothing beats the adrenaline rush when ur digging thru those dusty plastic tubs at estate sales... u know …

Patricia Poltera December 31, 2025

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"To most people, it's just 'old costume jewelry' in a dusty box. To us, it's history. I started this site because I was tired of seeing beautiful history melted down for scrap or sold as 'junk' simply because the seller didn't know what it was. Whether it’s a Georgian Cut Steel buckle or a Victorian mourning brooch, these pieces have survived wars, revolutions, and centuries of wear. They deserve to be identified, preserved, and understood. I’m here to help you see the value beyond the sparkle."

EPNS vs. Sterling Silver: How to Identify & Test Real Silver at Home

Pat. Pend Meaning: Dating Vintage Costume Jewelry by Patent Number

GOLD FILLED VS. GOLD PLATED: DECODING THE "1/20 12K GF" STAMP ON VINTAGE CHAINS

The Black Dot Secret: How to Identify Rare Georgian Paste Jewelry

The Daily Case File

EPNS vs. Sterling Silver: How to Identify & Test Real Silver at Home

GOLD FILLED VS. GOLD PLATED: DECODING THE "1/20 12K GF" STAMP ON VINTAGE CHAINS

How to Read Silver Hallmarks: A Guide to British Date Letters

The Green Death: How to Remove Verdigris (Green Gunk) Without Dissolving Vintage Glue.

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The "Milk Smell" Test: Identifying Galalith (French Bakelite) When Simichrome Fails

The Black Dot Secret: How to Identify Rare Georgian Paste Jewelry

The Jewelry Detective