Facets Blog on Vintage Jewelry

Cleaning Your Jewelry at Home and in the Shop

by Paula Bixel June 07, 2020

Did you know that we offer free cleaning and checkups on all jewelry purchased from us? We love to keep the beautiful jewels you purchase from us sparkling, clean, and in good order. Our customers have always appreciated the love and attention we put into keeping their jewelry looking fabulous. Now more than ever, we feel it necessary to go the extra mile when it comes to our cleaning practices.

Mid Mod; A Revolution at the Jewelers Bench

by Paula Bixel July 21, 2019

The freshness and new ideas of the mid mod generation didn't just happen in New York and San Francisco, it seemed to happen everywhere at once, a hopefulness that creativity could change the world, a revolution at the jewelers bench.

Spring Greens!

by Paula Bixel April 23, 2019

As I sit here at my computer listing rings on the website I realize I've chosen so many brightly hued pieces. So many greens, and opals with their flashes of all the colors of spring blooms.

Love and Luck

by Paula Bixel February 12, 2018

Sentiment and Superstition were important parts of life in the 19th century.With constant reminders of the fragility of life, the Victorians embraced love and entreated luck. These two themes can be seen in the jewels of the era.

Mourning in the 18th Century

by Paula Bixel November 08, 2017 1 Comment

A tale of two rings, each intriguing, each mysterious. Can we solve this puzzle? The details are everything.....

A bit of the History and properties of Birth Stones

by Paula Bixel September 01, 2016

Birthstones have not always been associated with a Month. In earlier times they were associated with each sign of the Zodiac. Let me tell you a bit about it....

A Research Journey with Kate

by Paula Bixel July 03, 2016

How do we figure out when a jewel was made? What the materials are? What secrets unfold under examination and research? Follow along with Kate as she discovers the secrets of this beauty.

Astronomy's Influence on Victorian Jewelry

by Paula Bixel July 01, 2016

Moons and stars, waxing and waning.... what meaning do these themes have in the pieces we collect? Victorian jewels give up their secrets of astronomical fascination.

A Coil in Common

by Paula Bixel May 19, 2016

I wandered into the Ancient Greek Hall and there was a magnificent trio of bronze faces, wearing their meticulously curled beards. Adornment takes many forms.