Frequently Asked Questions
Order
How do I purchase jewelry on your website?
How do I purchase jewelry on your website?
Choose the piece of jewelry that catches your eye, add it to your cart, and complete your order through our secure payment platform. A confirmation will be sent to you immediately by email. Our team remains at your disposal to assist you at every step of your purchase.
Are the featured pieces of jewelry available?
Are the featured pieces of jewelry available?
Yes. Each piece of jewelry offered is unique. As soon as it is sold, it is removed from our online catalog to ensure the availability of our collections.
Could I get some additional photographs or a video?
Could I get some additional photographs or a video?
Of course. We can send you detailed photographs or a video so that you can appreciate every detail of the jewelry before making your decision.
Can I see the piece of jewelry before buying it?
Can I see the piece of jewelry before buying it?
Yes. We look forward to welcoming you to our boutique in Antibes to discover our collections and try on the piece of jewelry you are interested in.
Do you offer gift wrapping?
Do you offer gift wrapping?
Yes. Each piece of jewelry is presented in a refined case. If your purchase is intended as a gift, we can also include a personalized message.
AUTHENTICITY & EXPERTISE
How do you guarantee the authenticity of your jewelry?
How do you guarantee the authenticity of your jewelry?
At Bijouterie Mikaelian, every piece of jewelry is selected with the utmost rigor. Before becoming part of our collection, it is carefully examined to verify its hallmarks, signatures, the quality of its stones, its materials, and all the elements attesting to its authenticity.
Are the pieces of jewelry appraised?
Are the pieces of jewelry appraised?
Yes. All items are inspected and appraised before being offered for sale to ensure their authenticity and quality.
Are the pieces of jewelry restored?
Are the pieces of jewelry restored?
When necessary, certain pieces undergo light restoration, carried out with respect for their era, craftsmanship, and history.
Do the pieces of jewelry come with a certificate?
Do the pieces of jewelry come with a certificate?
For certain signed creations, important stones or exceptional pieces of jewelry, a certificate or a detailed invoice accompanies the item.
How can you recognize a genuine piece of vintage jewelry?
How can you recognize a genuine piece of vintage jewelry?
A true vintage jewel stands out for the era in which it was made, the quality of its craftsmanship, its hallmarks, its style, and sometimes the designer's signature. Each piece is meticulously checked before being offered for sale.
Can I buy an antique piece of jewelry with confidence?
Can I buy an antique piece of jewelry with confidence?
Yes. Transparency is at the heart of our approach. Each product page faithfully describes the jewelry, its condition, its materials, and its features so that you can buy with complete peace of mind.
VINTAGE & SECOND-HAND JEWELRY
Why buy vintage jewelry?
Why buy vintage jewelry?
Choosing vintage jewelry means acquiring a unique creation, steeped in history and crafted with often remarkable expertise. It is also a choice for more responsible consumption by giving a second life to an exceptional piece of jewelry.
What is the difference between antique, vintage, and second-hand jewelry?
What is the difference between antique, vintage, and second-hand jewelry?
An antique piece of jewelry generally refers to a creation dating back more than one hundred years. Vintage jewelry belongs to a more recent era, often between the 1920s and the 1990s. Second-hand jewelry is a piece that has already belonged to a previous owner, regardless of its period of creation.
Are second-hand jewelry items in good condition?
Are second-hand jewelry items in good condition?
Yes. Each piece is selected with exacting standards, carefully inspected, and presented with a precise description of its condition.
Why are antique jewels so appealing?
Why are antique jewels so appealing?
Their timeless elegance, quality of craftsmanship, and unique character make them creations sought after by lovers of fine jewelry.
Can a vintage piece of jewelry increase in value?
Can a vintage piece of jewelry increase in value?
The value of a piece of jewelry depends on numerous criteria: its era, its rarity, its signature, the quality of its stones, its condition, and market trends. Some pieces can maintain or increase their value over time.
Is buying second-hand jewelry a responsible choice?
Is buying second-hand jewelry a responsible choice?
Yes. Giving a second life to a piece of jewelry helps preserve jewelry heritage while favoring a more sustainable approach.
Why are antique jewels so rare?
Why are antique jewels so rare?
Many pieces of jewelry have been altered or melted down over the generations. Pieces preserved in their original condition are particularly sought after today.
DIAMONDS & PRECIOUS STONES
Are your diamonds natural?
Are your diamonds natural?
Unless otherwise indicated, the diamonds offered are natural.
Are the gemstones authentic?
Are the gemstones authentic?
Yes. Rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other precious stones are carefully inspected before being offered for sale.
Are there any differences between ancient stones and modern stones?
Are there any differences between ancient stones and modern stones?
Yes. Antique cuts offer a unique brilliance and personality, bearing witness to the craftsmanship of the workshops of their time.
Are the diamonds certified?
Are the diamonds certified?
Depending on their importance, some diamonds are accompanied by a certificate issued by a recognized laboratory.
Are inclusions normal?
Are inclusions normal?
Yes. Certain stones, particularly emeralds, naturally contain inclusions that contribute to their identity and often attest to their natural origin.
GOLD & PRECIOUS METALS
How can I determine the purity of gold?
How can I determine the purity of gold?
The hallmark stamped on the piece of jewelry identifies the precious metal and its purity, such as 18-karat gold or platinum.
Do you only offer gold jewelry?
Do you only offer gold jewelry?
Our selection is mainly composed of gold and platinum jewelry. We also offer certain silver creations depending on their era.
What do the hallmarks on a piece of jewelry mean?
What do the hallmarks on a piece of jewelry mean?
Hallmarks make it possible to identify the precious metal, its fineness, or sometimes its manufacturer. They are an essential element in the authentication of a piece of jewelry.
RING SIZE
Can I have a ring resized?
Can I have a ring resized?
In the majority of cases, yes. However, some antique rings require a preliminary assessment to preserve their integrity.
How do I know my size?
How do I know my size?
We can advise you remotely or welcome you in-store to take your precise measurements.
Can all rings be resized?
Can all rings be resized?
Certain older creations or very specific models cannot be modified. We will advise you on a case-by-case basis.
INTERVIEW
How can I maintain the shine of my jewelry?
How can I maintain the shine of my jewelry?
Avoid shocks, chemical products, cosmetics, perfume, swimming pools, and seawater. Store each piece of jewelry separately in its case to preserve its beauty over time.
Do you clean jewelry?
Do you clean jewelry?
Yes. We can clean your piece of jewelry or advise you on the most appropriate care based on the materials and stones.
How often should jewelry be inspected?
How often should jewelry be inspected?
We recommend a check-up every two to three years to verify the settings and the general condition of the piece of jewelry.
Can I wear my jewelry every day?
Can I wear my jewelry every day?
Yes, provided you take care of it and avoid activities that could cause significant impact.
DELIVERY
Are your shipments insured?
Are your shipments insured?
Yes. All our shipments are secure and insured until they are delivered against a signature.
Do you ship internationally?
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We deliver to many countries. The terms vary depending on the destination.
Are the jewels carefully packaged?
Are the jewels carefully packaged?
Each piece of jewelry is presented in an elegant case and carefully protected to ensure safe transport.
Can I track my order?
Can I track my order?
Yes. A tracking number will be provided to you once your parcel has been shipped.
WARRANTY
Are the jewels guaranteed?
Are the jewels guaranteed?
We guarantee the authenticity of each of our pieces of jewelry as well as their conformity to their description.
Do you offer after-sales service?
Do you offer after-sales service?
Yes. We remain at your disposal after your purchase to advise you, answer your questions, or guide you toward the most suitable solutions.
SELLING YOUR JEWELRY
Do you buy antique jewelry?
Do you buy antique jewelry?
Yes. We buy antique jewelry, vintage jewelry, signed jewelry, diamonds, watches, and estate jewelry.
How does an expert assessment work?
How does an expert assessment work?
After careful examination, we provide an estimate based on the materials, stones, period, state of preservation, and current market value.
Is the expert appraisal confidential?
Is the expert appraisal confidential?
Yes. All valuations are carried out with the utmost discretion and are non-binding.
ADVICE & BUYING GUIDE
How to choose an antique piece of jewelry?
How to choose an antique piece of jewelry?
Choosing an antique piece of jewelry is, above all, a meeting between a piece and a person. Our team is at your disposal to advise you according to your tastes, your budget, and the occasion you wish to celebrate.
How to choose a vintage engagement ring?
How to choose a vintage engagement ring?
A vintage engagement ring captivates with its uniqueness and history. We help you select a piece that combines elegance, quality, and emotion.
Why give antique jewelry?
Why give antique jewelry?
Offering an antique piece of jewelry means passing on a story, craftsmanship, and an emotion. Each piece is unique and destined to span generations.
Are antique jewels suitable for daily wear?
Are antique jewels suitable for daily wear?
Yes, provided they are carefully maintained. Some older or more delicate creations simply require a few extra precautions.
Are signed pieces of jewelry more sought after?
Are signed pieces of jewelry more sought after?
Creations from major fashion houses or renowned jewelers are particularly prized for their quality, rarity, and history.
Is an antique piece of jewelry an investment?
Is an antique piece of jewelry an investment?
Even though a piece of jewelry should first and foremost be a crush, certain rare or designer pieces can maintain or increase in value over time.
SHOP
Where is Bijouterie Mikaelian located?
Where is Bijouterie Mikaelian located?
Our boutique is located in Antibes, in the heart of the French Riviera, where we welcome you to discover a selection of antique, vintage, and second-hand jewelry.
Why choose Mikaelian Jewelry?
Why choose Mikaelian Jewelry?
Because every piece of jewelry is chosen with exacting standards for its beauty, authenticity, and history. Our vocation is to preserve and pass on an exceptional jewelry heritage.
Why trust Bijouterie Mikaelian?
Why trust Bijouterie Mikaelian?
Our passion for antique jewelry, our expertise, and our commitment to quality allow us to offer unique pieces, carefully selected. We prioritize a relationship based on attentive listening, transparency, and personalized advice so that every acquisition is a purchase made with complete confidence.
Can I make an appointment in-store?
Can I make an appointment in-store?
Yes. We recommend that you book an appointment if you would like to receive personalized assistance, discover a specific selection, or have a piece of jewelry appraised.
Everything you need to know about buying and selling pre-owned luxury jewelry at Mikaelian
The second-hand luxury jewelry and watch market relies above all on trust. Trust in the authenticity of the pieces, trust in price transparency, and trust in the reliability of the professional. It is precisely on these foundations that the Mikaelian house has built its reputation over the years in Antibes, in the heart of the French Riviera.
Buying or selling a pre-owned luxury piece of jewelry is not a trivial matter. Behind every item often lies a story, a sentimental value, or a financial investment. That is why at Mikaelian, we take the time to explain every step of the process, answer all questions, and guide our clients without haste or commercial pressure. Our role is to inform you so that you can make an informed decision, whether you are selling an inherited piece, completing a collection, or looking to add value to jewelry that is no longer being used.
The expertise we employ for every appraisal is based on years of experience in the secondary luxury jewelry market, constant monitoring of international market rates, and in-depth knowledge of the great houses: Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Rolex, Patek Philippe, and many others. This expertise is placed at your disposal free of charge, with no obligation on your part, from your very first contact with our team.
If you wish to take the next step, our boutique in Antibes is open to welcome you, advise you, and answer all your questions in person. You can also reach us by phone or email for a quick initial contact; we commit to responding to you within 24 business hours.
