The Back Vault Blog

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Serve Up Some Sparkle: The Tennis Bracelet's Grand Slam History

Serve Up Some Sparkle: The Tennis Bracelet's Grand Slam History

Hey there, vintage jewelry lovers and tennis enthusiasts! With the US Open just around the corner, we thought it was the perfect time to rally around one of our favorite...
What Makes A Better Investment: Cartier's Love Bangle vs. Juste Un Clou Bracelet

What Makes A Better Investment: Cartier's Love Bangle vs. Juste Un Clou Bracelet

Since its inception, Cartier has graced the world of luxury with timeless creations, two of which have become iconic symbols of sophistication and style: the Love Bangle and the Juste Un Clou Bracelet. In this blog post, we'll delve into the origins, unique features, investment value, and current popularity of these two Cartier masterpieces.
How To Spot A Real Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra (Necklace or Bracelet). Your Best Guide For Spotting A Real VCA piece.

How To Spot A Real Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra (Necklace or Bracelet). Your Best Guide For Spotting A Real VCA piece.

Spotting a real Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra piece requires a keen eye for detail and knowledge of the brand's markings and serial numbers. Be sure to check the chain, count the beads, look at the prongs, and check the serial number. Always research the seller and if in doubt, consider getting the piece authenticated by an expert. 
How To Pick An Eternity Band 101: The Essential Guide

How To Pick An Eternity Band 101: The Essential Guide

When purchasing an eternity band you have to think about your lifestyle and your daily routine. No jeweler in the world can tell you what looks best on your finger, with your wardrobe and your other jewelry. 
The Dummies' Guide To Emerald Cut Diamonds

The Dummies' Guide To Emerald Cut Diamonds

The emerald cut is one of the most classic, dramatic and sophisticated cuts out there. With long crisp lines, these stones elongate any finger, creating a sought after look. The emerald cut diamond is derived from the first true diamond cut, the table cut, which started around the 1400s.

The Amazing Jean Schlumberger

The Amazing Jean Schlumberger

Designer of the famous "Jackie bracelet", Jean Schlumberger, was one of the world's most talented artists. With exquisite color stones and diamonds at his disposal, he transformed nature's creatures into...
Is Vintage Signed Jewelry Valuable?

Is Vintage Signed Jewelry Valuable?

There are collectors across the globe that will pay top dollar for vintage signed pieces. Very unique items can be found in auctions like Christie's, Sotheby's, Bonhams, Doyle and more, and you will be surprised when you see the numbers certain items get sold for. 
How To Spot A Real Cartier: Your Ultimate Guide to Authentic Cartier Jewelry

How To Spot A Real Cartier: Your Ultimate Guide to Authentic Cartier Jewelry

If you are looking at buying a vintage piece of Cartier it is important to be able to spot the difference between a genuine and a try hard. This article will help you get an idea of what clues to look for when buying a vintage or current Cartier jewelry. 
Pre-owned or New…Who’s the Fool?

Pre-owned or New…Who’s the Fool?

Buy brand new and pay the price, or buy pre-owned and revel in the knowledge that you bought quite a bargain? I wonder…who’s the fool.
Why Mom Was Right About The Diamond Cut

Why Mom Was Right About The Diamond Cut

The Sparkle or Brilliance of a diamond is directly linked to how a diamond is cut.  Many consumers are misinformed and think that the brilliance of a diamond comes from how white it is, or how clear. This simply is not true. 

5 Best Ways To Wear A Brooch

5 Best Ways To Wear A Brooch

Brooches and pins experienced a strong come back in 2019 and 2020 bringing a touch of vintage and sophistication to almost every ensemble. Both men and women appeared wearing brooches in Hollywood and Canes, embellishing almost all thinkable and unthinkable garment parts.

How Hollywood Got Cape Diamonds All Wrong

How Hollywood Got Cape Diamonds All Wrong

Cape Diamonds is a term used mostly by jewelers and diamond dealers to refer to diamonds that are darker (yellower) than M color. The term Cape used to refer to diamonds cut from rough that originated from Cape Town South Africa.