Below is a *general* guideline for Condition & Rating Vintage Jewelry. Feel free to use this guide for your jewelry condition descriptions.

MINT: New, in the box (from which it has never been removed), as it came from the factory. This criteria is so difficult to meet, that it is almost NEVER used.

NEAR MINT: Appears to be never worn or used, nor stored improperly. It may display it's age by tarnishing, especially in silver (once polished, however, it is no longer Near Mint).

EXCELLENT: Top condition with no chipping, fading, missing stones, no yellowing stones, no peeling, no worn prongs or edges. Backs (especially of earrings) may be very slightly worn as long as the front is still in Top Condition. Replaced stones should be so perfect in size cut and color that it is virtually unnoticeable.

VERY GOOD: Well cared for with no missing stones, no dead stones or graying stones, no peeling pearls, enamel may have minor chips, may show slight wear or scratching on prongs, edges. Backs may be very moderately worn. Replaced stones should be a good match in size, cut and color.

GOOD: Very wearable and acceptable, however, upon close inspection may reveal some poor foiling including spotting( the small "pepper" kind), minor clouding and minor darkening or graying stones, chipping, minor yellowing and wear.

FAIR: Damage is immediately visible and may or may not be repairable, and might include missing stones,dark stones including spotting that is more than "pepper", broken parts, & severe wear.