What’s Cartier love bracelet worth?
Q: Recently I purchased a love bracelet at an estate sale. Later I discovered that it was hallmarked by Cartier. Who can I contact to determine its value? — Dottie, Kissimmee, Fla.
A: One of the better reference books is Old Jewelry: 1840-1950 Identification and Price Guide, by C. Jeanenne Bell (Krause Publications, $27.99). This comprehensive guide determines how old a piece of jewelry is, what kind of metal or material it is crafted of and whether a stone is the real McCoy or synthetic. Especially helpful for you is valuable information about maker’s marks and current prices in the marketplace.
Janet Lawwill is the owner of AZillion Sparklz, a mail-order and Internet business dealing exclusively in both costume and fine estate jewelry. She is knowledgeable and might be able to answer many of your questions. Her address and telephone number are P.O. Box 36269, Tucson, AZ 85740-6269; and 1-520-219-3712. You can also e-mail her at jewel2@sparklz.com or visit her Web site at www.sparklz.com.
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Q: I have an actual photo of the Three Stooges. Any info would be appreciated. — Gary (via e-mail)
A: Gary Lassin is president of the Three Stooges Fan Club, P.O. Box 747, Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437. Mark Lyons is a serious collector and is especially interested in pre-1970 items related to the comedy team. His address is 6020 Paseo Del Norte, Suite B, Carlsbad, CA 92009.
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Q: How old does furniture have to be before it is considered an antique? — Susan, Tulsa, Okla.
A: An antique generally is an item that is at least 100 years old. A collectible, on the other hand, can be yesterday’s newspaper.