The Journal

What do the mottoes on antique signet rings mean? A dealer’s guide to family mottoes, from Frangas non flectes to Cavendo tutus, and how they were engraved on seals.

What a Georgian engagement ring really was, the main styles from crowned hearts and bow rings to clusters and sentimental rings, how to recognise a Georgian ring and how to...

How to buy an antique necklace or chain: dating by clasp, link and marks, choosing the right length, and what to check for condition, with examples from Georgian to Art...

What makes Art Deco jewellery so distinctive? A dealer's guide to the geometry, platinum, calibre-cut stones and Egyptomania of c.1920–1939, and how to recognise a genuine Art Deco piece.

What makes Edwardian jewellery special? A dealer's guide to the platinum, garland style, old cut diamonds and pearls of c.1901–1915, the Belle Époque, and how to recognise a genuine Edwardian...

How do you date antique jewellery? A dealer's guide to the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras, and the practical clues of diamond cut, metal, setting and hallmarks that...

How did the Romans use signet rings? A dealer's guide to Roman seals on letters, wills and storerooms, the images they chose, what survives today, and how to wear a...

Which finger should a man wear a signet ring on? A dealer's guide to the little finger tradition, sizing and resizing antique signets, and how to wear one today.

Is your gold signet ring vintage or antique? How to date one from its hallmarks, carat, shape, construction, engraving and wear, from a dealer who handles hundreds.

What makes one Victorian piece worth £300 and another £30,000, how to spot later reproductions, and which Victorian jewellery you can wear every day.

A dealer's honest guide to old mine, cushion and rose cut diamonds, and why an antique engagement ring beats a lab-grown or new one on charm, ethics and value.

How to get the size right, which antique rings can and cannot be resized, and how to choose an antique ring you can wear every day.