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Archive for the ‘Beaded’ Category

Vintage Jewelry and “Oops”

I was a beader before getting into costume jewelry. (Actually, I still am a beader, in addition to the vintage costume jewelry). Anyway, here's a story, and I wonder if it's happened to you as well.

About 4 years ago, I stopped by a flea market, to see what was available -- more or less just looking. At one of the tables, I spied a bunch of beads, so naturally I had to go and take a look.

There were the standard not-quite-vintage necklaces, none of which impressed me enough to check on the prices. Then I saw it; a beautiful triple-strand aurora borealis necklace. Even in the shadow of the tent it was in, it sparkled and shone. Hmm, what would it be like in the sunlight?

The woman selling the necklace told me that it had originally belonged to her mother, and it had been purchased in the late 50s. And amazing, there was a set of earrings to match!

Now I was looking to take that necklace apart, and use those beautiful aurora borealis crystal beads. (Are you cringing yet?) And that I did. And made them into some pretty jewelry.

But now when I think about the set itself, I wonder who made it. I've certainly seen similar sets that were signed. Some that went for more than I paid for the set, certainly.

Needless to say, I don't generally go looking for necklaces to pull apart for their beads anymore. At least, not without checking first to see if they are signed... I figure it's safer to just buy my beads from my regular beading sources these days.

Hopefully you haven't had a vintage jewelry "oops"! Meanwhile, here are some unsigned beaded necklaces that you can take apart.