FAQ:

FAQ: Our most frequently asked questions are below, but if you need more information, we are happy to help. Just email us on: sales@saintlamourvintage.com

What is the difference between vintage and antique jewellery? Vintage jewellery must be at least 20 to 30 years old to be considered vintage. This could be anything made during the 1990s or earlier. Antique jewellery on the other hand is any piece of jewellery that is about 100 years old or older. When an item is called "antique", you can rest assured that the piece is very old.

Are your jewellery pieces authentic? The majority of our pieces are vintage and antique, but we do also sell a limited stock of pre-loved jewellery. Each piece is professionally tested to verify the metal type and gold purity. We only sell genuine solid gold pieces, that being 9ct, 10ct, 14ct, 18ct or more. We will never sell gold plated or gold-filled jewellery, as we believe in quality, and that jewellery should last a lifetime.

What does it mean if my jewellery is ‘hallmarked’? Hallmarks are marks struck into precious metals as certification of their quality and authenticity. They essentially act as a guarantee that a piece contains the fine materials stated. Most of our pieces have gold stamps and are hallmarked, but some markings can be lost or faded due to age. The hallmark is essentially like a secret coded message that allows us to establish where the piece was made, and possibly even the period during which it was made. 

What is the condition of vintage and antique jewellery you sell? Each jewellery piece is checked to make sure they are in good resale condition, and we do our best to make sure the images are clear, and the description is accurate. However due to the fact these items are preloved, vintage and antique, please expect some degree of wear. If the item has any significant or noticeable damage or flaws, this will be clearly stated in the description. We describe and photograph all imperfections to the best of our ability. Please take time to view all photos and zoom in on the pictures before purchasing. We are happy to provide any additional details, photos, or videos if you are still unsure. Just email: sales@saintlanourvintage.com

What’s my ring size?

If you are not sure about your ring size, you can either use a ring sizer and measure yourself or visit a jeweller. The most accurate way to measure your finger size is either using a ring sizer or visiting your jeweller, and we do recommend this.

If you want to check your ring size yourself, we recommend purchasing this ringsizer online- Smith’s® Ring Sizer Gauge | Professional & Accurate | UK A-Z Sizing | Clear A-Z Engravings | Quality Checked | for Both Women & Men : Amazon.co.uk: Jewellery

Can you resize rings?

Spotted a beautiful ring in our shop, but not in your size? You can take it to your local jeweller who offers a resizing service. They will be able to evaluate your fit and resize the ring.

The price will vary depending on if you are downsizing or upsizing the ring, but usually ranges from approximately £30-£80. 

If you are unable to resize your ring, we will accept a full refund if the return is made within 14 days after receiving your jewellery piece. 

How do I care for and maintain my Jewellery?

We advise that jewellery worn frequently be inspected by a trusted jeweller every six months. This is a good preventative measure to confirm all parts are intact and gemstones are secure.

Although vintage and antique jewellery has already stood the test of time, it deserves special care. If treated with care, your gold jewellery should last for years. Here are a few things to keep in mind on whilst wearing your jewellery:

• Remove your jewellery prior to hand washing, vigorous activity and before sleeping.
• Avoid your jewellery coming into contact with perfume, hairspray or any other lotions. We recommend doing your make up, tanning routine etc, before placing on your jewellery.
• Although you can wear your jewellery in water, chemicals present in chlorine can damage the gold and gemstones, so best to remove. The build-up of soap will also cause a film on your jewellery and will dampen your sparkle!
• Household cleaners can also damage your jewellery’s finish. Be sure to wear rubber gloves or remove your jewellery altogether.

How do I store gold jewellery?

Use a jewellery box. A clean, dry fabric-lined jewellery box is best.

If you don’t have a jewellery box, wrap each piece in a soft cloth and store pieces separately. This prevents jewellery from tangling or scratching each other.

How do I clean my gold jewellery?

When worn regularly, gold jewellery is exposed to skin oils, sweat, dust, make up etc. To keep up the shine, you should clean your jewellery when its visibly dirty (don’t overdo it).

Before you clean however, look out for any damage or loose stones, as cleaning damaged pieces can make the problem worse.

To clean, mix a solution of 10 parts warm water and 2 parts washing up liquid. Soak the jewellery for up to 3 hours, and then brush the piece gently with a soft bristle children’s toothbrush (a one without rubber bristles is best). Rinse under clean water, and then blot dry with a cloth. You can then use a jewellery polishing cloth after for extra shine.