The Journal · Topic

Gold & Precious Metals

Karats, fineness marks, colour, durability and value — and the honest difference between plated, gold filled, vermeil and solid gold.

Hands inspecting the hallmarks inside an antique gold ring with a jeweler's loupe, beside calipers and a sketchbook.
September 2026

How to Tell If a Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Is Real

How to tell if a Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra is real: the perlée border, stone fit, clasp, serial number and hallmarks,...

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Antique jewelry on green velvet in a gilt tray: a star-set gold locket, diamond cluster brooch, pear drop earrings, emerald ring, cameo and a brass loupe.
September 2026

Retro Jewelry of the 1940s: Big Gold, Bold Colour, Wartime Rules

When platinum was requisitioned for the war effort, jewelers turned to gold and made it loud. Retro jewelry is the most undervalued...

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