If you thought all estate jewelry stores were created equal, think again. Whether purchasing something to complete your antique collection or just looking for that perfect piece to wear to your costume party, when it comes to buying estate, vintage, or antique jewelry, it is more than just a purchase – it’s an investment. And when it comes to investing, you want a reputable source you can trust. Since 1897, Schwarzschild Jewelers has established themselves as the most trustworthy estate jewelry store by maintaining high standards and building a legacy of proven expertise.
Keep reading to find out more about their standards, upheld for generations, including all the things you should be on the lookout for as you shop with the most trusted source for estate jewelry in Virginia.
Look for:
Proven Expertise and Gemological Credentials + Reputation and Longevity
Schwarzchild has been around since 1897, when William Schwarzchild opened up the Old Dominion Watch Company in Richmond, VA, specializing in Hamilton Watches. Later joined by his brother, Gustav, in 1903, the name was changed to Schwarzschild Brothers Watchmakers and Jewelers, and they broadened their merchandise. In addition to timepieces, they began selling diamonds, precious stones, and exquisite gold jewelry. Today, there are three locations in Richmond, Midlothian, and Charlottesville, VA.
About twenty years prior, French A. Balthis, a master watchmaker, opened his jewelry store in Charlottesville, VA; a year later, his cousin, Thomas S. Keller, a master engraver, joined him. In 1893, they were joined by Alexander George and renamed Keller & George Jewelers. The oldest independent jeweler in Central Virginia, they are world-renowned for their fine estate jewelry and internationally recognized brands. In 2017, they were co-branded as Schwarzchild Keller & George to help the community recognize that Keller George carries the support of the Schwarzschild stores, not far from where they are located.
Look For:
Red Flags / Transparency and Detailed Documentation
If you are shopping at a trustworthy estate jewelry store, the jeweler on site should be able to provide you with any certificates of authenticity, appraisal documents, or historical records that go with the piece purchased. At Schwarzschild Jewelers, you’ll meet both AGS-certified jewelers and GIA gemologists to guide you through everything you ever wanted to know about a piece, including the era it hails from, the cut of the stone, its metal composition, and any prior work done. It’s a huge red flag if any of these items are omitted from the list.
Look For:
In-house Services and Restoration Capabilities
When searching for a trustworthy estate jewelry store near you, make sure they offer in-house repairs and have the capability to restore a wide range of pieces. When you shop at Schwarzschild Jewelers for vintage and estate jewelry, you have access to master jewelers and certified watch technicians for the lifetime of every piece. This means the team selling the piece is the same team that will maintain it for years to come. Perhaps not the first thing you think about when searching for vintage jewelry stores near you, but add “check for appraisal services” to your list. At Schwarzschild Jewelers, you can rest assured that there is an AGS Certified Gemological Appraiser available to make an appointment with to provide an extra layer of professional accountability for your investment.
Look For:
Schwarzschild Jewelers as Your Trusted Source for Estate Jewelry
For generations, Schwarzschild Jewelers has been leading the charge when it comes to any and all estate, antique, and vintage jewelry needs. Don’t take our word for it, though. Visit us at any of our locations, including Richmond, Charlottesville, and Midlothian, and see for yourself why Schwarzschild Jewelers is the most trustworthy estate jewelry store.