We Purchase Inherited & Vintage Jewelry in Orange County

Phone: (657) 333-2005
Appointments: jewelrybuyersvintageandcostume.com
Service: By appointment only — in office or mobile (we can come to you in Orange County and nearby areas).

Our Focus: True Vintage & Quality Costume Jewelry

We specialize in true vintage jewelry—pieces typically made between the 1920s and the 1990s—and select antique items earlier than that era. Our buying interest includes quality costume and fashion jewelry from respected makers, as well as precious metal items when they accompany a vintage collection. We do not purchase mass-produced modern party jewelry (e.g., low-cost contemporary lines such as Paparazzi) because our collectors and clients value craftsmanship, design heritage, and materials that stand the test of time.

What We Buy

• Vintage Costume Jewelry: signed and unsigned pieces with strong design, construction, or provenance.
• Designer & Studio Pieces: notable American and European makers known for quality findings and finishes.
• Rhinestone & Crystal: brooches, necklaces, parures, and earrings with well-set stones and intact plating.
• Sterling Silver & Vermeil: pieces with hallmarks, interesting motifs, or artisan workmanship.
• Bakelite & Early Plastics: bangles, pins, and sets with tested materials and desirable colors.
• Statement Sets: complete suites (parures), demi-parures, and boxed sets in good condition.
• Estate & Inherited Collections: mixed assortments from one family or collector, including unsorted boxes and trunks.

How Our Buying Process Works

1. Call or Schedule: Reach us at (657) 333-2005 or book an appointment at jewelrybuyersvintageandcostume.com. We offer in-office and mobile appointments in Orange County.
2. Preview & Planning: If you have many items, we can review photos ahead of time to plan time and packing materials. Clear front and back images help us identify signatures, construction, and condition.
3. On-Site Evaluation: We examine each piece for maker’s marks, materials, workmanship, condition, and collectability. We’ll sort items into categories so you can see how value is built across the collection.
4. Transparent Offer: We explain our offer line-by-line or group-by-group so you understand how we arrived at the total. No pressure. No surprises.
5. Immediate Payment: If you accept our offer, we pay on the spot and provide a clear receipt. For large estates, we can also discuss partial purchases or staged selling plans.

Preparing Inherited Jewelry for an Evaluation

• Keep Sets Together: Place matching earrings, necklaces, brooches, and bracelets in the same bag or tray. Complete sets often command higher value.
• Don’t Clean Aggressively: Over-cleaning can remove original finishes and reduce value. Light dusting is fine; leave deeper cleaning to us.
• Retain Boxes & Tags: Original boxes, cards, and hangtags can increase collectability and make attribution easier.
• Include Repairs & Singles: Broken clasps or single earrings may still have value for parts or matching a rare set.
• Photograph the Back: The back of a brooch or clasp tells us about construction, era, and sometimes the maker—pictures save time.

How We Evaluate Value

We consider maker attribution, design, materials, condition, and demand. Signed pieces, high-grade plating, hand-set stones, and intact finishes typically earn stronger offers. Scarce colors, iconic motifs, and complete sets also increase desirability. With inherited collections, we look at the whole group—sometimes the overall curation carries additional value beyond the sum of individual items.

Why Sellers Choose Us

• Local & Mobile: Based in Orange County, we can come to your home, office, or secure storage unit for larger estates.
• Discreet & Respectful: We understand the sentimental nature of inherited pieces and provide a calm, no-pressure experience.
• Collector-Level Knowledge: We study construction techniques, era-specific hardware, and maker nuances to value items accurately.
• Fair, Clear Offers: We explain our pricing logic so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
• Immediate Payment: No waiting periods. When you’re ready, we finalize and pay.

Mobile Appointments Across Orange County

Many inherited collections are large or fragile. Our mobile service brings the evaluation to you. We arrive prepared with trays, magnification, reference tools, and packing supplies. If you’re managing an estate or clearing a home, we can coordinate with family members or executors to ensure a smooth, documented process. We also accommodate evening or weekend appointments when scheduled in advance.

What We Don’t Buy

To maintain the quality standards our collectors expect, we typically decline modern, mass-produced party jewelry or ultra-low-cost lines often sold at gatherings or social events. Our focus is on true vintage and collectible items with enduring craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.

Estate Executors & Family Sellers

If you are the executor of an estate or coordinating with multiple family members, we can provide a written summary of what we’ve evaluated, identify highlights, and outline a purchase that balances fairness with efficiency. We respect timelines and can work around clean-out dates, real estate closings, and other deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appraisal first?
Not necessarily. Appraisals are helpful for insurance or legal purposes, but they’re not required to receive an offer. Our evaluation is complimentary with no obligation to sell.

Do you buy only signed pieces?
No. Many unsigned vintage items are highly collectible, especially when the design, construction, or materials are strong. We consider both signed and unsigned pieces.

Can you purchase part of the collection?
Yes. We can buy the entire lot or select portions, depending on your goals. We’ll outline how each option affects your total return.

How do you pay?
We provide immediate payment and a detailed receipt at the time of sale. For larger purchases, we can discuss alternate arrangements if needed.

Call or Schedule Your Appointment

Ready to learn what your inherited or vintage collection is worth? Call (657) 333-2005 or book an appointment at jewelrybuyersvintageandcostume.com. We serve Orange County and surrounding communities by appointment only and offer mobile evaluations for your convenience.

We look forward to helping you honor the history of your pieces and find them a new chapter with collectors who appreciate their story.

Sell Your Vintage Jewelry Before an Estate Sale in Orange County or Los Angeles

When planning an estate sale in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, or San Bernardino County, one of the most overlooked opportunities is the value of vintage and costume jewelry. Many families preparing to liquidate an estate focus on furniture, art, or household items, while boxes of old jewelry often sit untouched — sometimes worth far more than expected. At Jewelry Trader of Vintage Costume, we specialize in recognizing and purchasing those hidden treasures before they’re lost in a general sale.

Why You Should Call Us Before an Estate Sale

Estate sales are fast-paced and designed to move items quickly. Jewelry, especially vintage costume pieces, often ends up being sold in bulk or undervalued because most estate sale companies focus on furniture and décor rather than specialized collectible markets. Our expertise ensures that your vintage jewelry is properly evaluated and sold for its true worth.

We buy vintage and designer costume jewelry from the 1930s through the 1980s, including well-known names such as Miriam Haskell, Trifari, Weiss, Juliana, Sherman, Coro, and Napier. Whether you have an entire collection or just a few pieces, our evaluations are accurate, confidential, and convenient.

Serving Orange County and Beyond

Based in Orange County, we proudly serve clients throughout nearby areas including Los Angeles County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County. We frequently visit cities such as Orange, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, Fullerton, Pasadena, Torrance, Long Beach, Riverside, and Rancho Cucamonga. Many of our clients choose to schedule a private appointment at home for comfort and ease. We understand that estate transitions can be emotional, and we take pride in providing a respectful, professional experience every step of the way.

How Our Process Works

• Step 1: Call or text us at (657) 333-2005 to schedule an appointment. You can also send clear photos of your jewelry in advance for a preliminary review.
• Step 2: We come to your location — home, office, or estate sale site — at a time that’s convenient for you.
• Step 3: We carefully evaluate each piece of jewelry, identifying designers, materials, age, and overall market demand.
• Step 4: You receive a fair cash offer on the spot. There are no fees, no obligations, and no hidden charges.

We buy both individual items and full collections, including rhinestone brooches, vintage necklaces, earrings, bracelets, signed designer sets, and even damaged pieces with collectible value.

Why Sell Directly to a Specialist

Unlike pawn shops or generic estate buyers, we focus exclusively on vintage and costume jewelry. This specialization allows us to recognize rare and desirable pieces that others might overlook. Our evaluations are based on current collector demand, designer popularity, and condition. Many of our clients are surprised to learn that a small box of “old costume jewelry” can sometimes be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Additionally, when you sell directly to us, you avoid the commission fees that estate companies typically charge. Instead of waiting days for the estate sale to conclude, you receive immediate payment and peace of mind knowing your jewelry was sold for fair market value.

Estate Jewelry and Inherited Collections

If you’ve recently inherited jewelry, it can be difficult to know what’s valuable and what’s simply sentimental. We can help sort and evaluate inherited collections piece by piece. Our team identifies vintage brands, materials such as Bakelite or lucite, and specific designer markings that indicate collectible status. This detailed approach helps families make informed decisions before selling or donating jewelry during estate liquidation.

Orange County and Los Angeles: A Hotspot for Vintage Finds

Southern California, particularly Orange County and Los Angeles, has a rich history of fashion and jewelry design. From Hollywood costume designers to classic mid-century jewelers, the region has long been a hub for creativity and style. Because of this, many local estates hold rare and sought-after jewelry pieces that appeal to collectors worldwide. When you work with Jewelry Trader of Vintage Costume, you’re connecting directly to this specialized collector network, ensuring top value for your vintage items.

We Come to You — Fast and Confidential

Our mobile buying service is designed for convenience. We understand that many clients prefer private transactions, especially when handling estate matters. Whether you’re in a gated community in Newport Beach, a hillside home in Los Angeles, or a family property in Riverside, we bring our expertise directly to your door. Every transaction is discreet, respectful, and handled with professionalism.

Items We Commonly Purchase

• Vintage costume jewelry sets and parures
• Designer-signed pieces (Miriam Haskell, Weiss, Coro, Trifari, Juliana, Napier, etc.)
• Rhinestone, enamel, and glass jewelry
• Vintage clip earrings and brooches
• Antique necklaces and bracelets
• Estate collections and inherited boxes of jewelry
• Unsigned but high-quality vintage costume pieces

How to Prepare Before Selling

Before we arrive, you don’t need to clean or organize your jewelry — in fact, we prefer to see items in their original condition. Avoid polishing, removing tags, or repairing broken pieces, as these actions can reduce collectible value. Simply gather the jewelry in a safe container or display box for easy review. If you’re unsure whether an item is real gold, silver, or costume, we’ll help identify it during our visit.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Whether you’re in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, or San Bernardino, Jewelry Trader of Vintage Costume is ready to help. Our mission is to make the process of selling vintage jewelry simple, transparent, and rewarding. Estate sales move fast — don’t let valuable pieces get sold for less than they’re worth. Call or text us before your estate sale begins and get a free evaluation with same-day cash payment.

Jewelry Trader of Vintage Costume
Serving Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties
By appointment only — call or text (657) 333-2005
We travel to you for evaluations and purchases.

If you’re thinking about holding an estate sale, contact us first — you may be sitting on hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

The History of Nolan Miller Jewelry

From Hollywood glamour to the QVC shopping network, the name Nolan Miller evokes images of glitz, drama, and bold costume jewelry. In this post, we’ll explore the life of Nolan Miller, how his jewelry line came into being, the hallmarks and evolution of his designs, and the legacy his pieces have left behind in the world of collectible costume jewelry.

Who Was Nolan Miller?

Nolan Bertrandoff Miller was born January 8, 1933 (or sometimes cited as 1935) and passed away June 7, 2012. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} He is best known as a fashion designer, television costume designer (notably for the hit 1980s soap *Dynasty*), and a creator of a signature line of glamorous costume jewelry. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

His background in designing for the screen gave him a flair for theatrical aesthetics—bold color, large gemstones or faux gems, dramatic silhouettes—all of which translated into his jewelry line. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

The Birth of the Jewelry Brand (1957 Onwards)

Nolan Miller’s brand is said to have been established around 1957 in Beverly Hills, where he began designing not just costumes but jewelry and accessories for celebrities. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} Over time, the jewelry side of his career grew into a distinct business under his name. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

In the beginning, his pieces were likely made to complement his fashion and costume work. But as his reputation grew, the demand for “wearable stage glamour” expanded. His pieces began to be produced and marketed more broadly, not just for television or red carpet, but for those who loved dramatic statement jewelry.

Hallmarks & Design Features

What sets Nolan Miller jewelry apart? Some recurring features and stylistic trademarks include:

• Bold scale & drama: Many of his designs feature large stones, oversized shapes, or high-impact motifs (flowers, hearts, birds). Collectors often notice an emphasis on “theatrical elegance.”
• Faux pearls and crystals: His line frequently used high-quality simulated pearls, rhinestones, crystals, and glass gems rather than fine gemstones. The aesthetic was always about sparkle and visual impact. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Gold- or silver-tone settings: Many pieces are in gold-tone or silver-tone metal, carefully worked to hold the gems and make bold statements. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Signature marks and branding: Many pieces are signed with “Nolan Miller,” especially in the “Glamour Collection” line. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Interchangeable or convertible elements: Some jewelry pieces include enhancers, interchangeable pendants, or modular components to adapt the look. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

In the costume jewelry landscape, Nolan Miller’s work is sometimes compared to peers that emphasize high glamour and bold statement design. Collectors often look for condition, original packaging, and signature marks.

Expansion via QVC & Mass Market Reach

One of the turning points for Nolan Miller jewelry was its distribution through QVC, the televised home shopping network. His jewelry line was sold on QVC from about 1992 until his retirement in 2011. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10} This allowed his designs to reach a wide audience beyond just fashion insiders or costume circles.

Through QVC, buyers could see his pieces in motion, styled on models or hosts, which helped transmit the dramatic flair of the designs. Over those nearly two decades, thousands of pieces passed through that channel, making Nolan Miller a recognizable name in consumers’ minds when it came to “glamorous costume jewelry.”

Later Years, Retirement, and Legacy

Nolan Miller officially retired from QVC in 2011. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} He passed away in 2012 after a battle with lung cancer. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

After his passing, the jewelry line does not appear to have grown much further under his direct influence. Instead, his body of work is now part of the collectible costume jewelry world. Enthusiasts and collectors scan estate sales, vintage shops, auctions, and online marketplaces for original Nolan Miller pieces.

Today, many of his more striking designs command premium prices in the vintage/jewelry-collecting market. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13} Collector sites and blogs (e.g. *Collecting Costume Jewelry 101*) also serve as guides to identify, value, and preserve his work. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Collector Notes & Tips

If you're interested in collecting or studying Nolan Miller jewelry, here are a few tips:

1. Look for signatures and marks: Many genuine pieces carry a “Nolan Miller” stamp or mark, especially on clasps, pendants, or backs of brooches. Pieces without signatures may warrant more scrutiny.
2. Original packaging helps: A piece comes with its original box or certificate (especially from the QVC era), that typically boosts desirability and value.
3. Check condition of stones & settings: Over time, rhinestones or crystals may loosen or fall out. The quality of prongs or bezels is important.
4. Study known lines and styles: Familiarize yourself with his popular motifs (flowers, birds, hearts) to spot patterns and authenticity clues.
5. Preserve carefully: Store pieces individually, avoid moisture, and clean gently (no harsh chemicals). Keeping any original packaging helps with provenance.

Why Nolan Miller Jewelry Still Matters

Nolan Miller jewelry occupies an interesting niche at the intersection of fashion, costume, and collectible design. His background in designing for television and celebrities gave his work a theatrical sensibility that stands apart from more “wearable everyday” costume jewelry lines.

Because his pieces were marketed both as high-glamour costume jewelry and via mass retail (QVC), they now attract both design-focused collectors and nostalgia-minded shoppers. The bold aesthetic, when well-preserved, still commands attention and admiration.

In a larger sense, Nolan Miller’s jewelry is a testament to the power of personal branding: he translated his style and reputation into a product line that extended his legacy beyond clothing and screen design.

Conclusion

The history of Nolan Miller jewelry is a story of showmanship, design ambition, and the blending of fashion and theatrical spectacle. From his roots in Hollywood costuming to his bold jewelry lines sold via QVC, he carved a unique path in the world of costume adornment. Today, his work lives on in the collections of enthusiasts and stands as a mark of dramatic elegance in the costume jewelry world.

— Written by [Your Name]

Unique Vintage Costume Jewelry Sets: Creative Design, Endless Style

What Makes a Vintage Costume Jewelry “Set”

• A coordinated group of pieces—typically necklace, bracelet, earrings, and sometimes brooch—that share matching motifs, stones, and finishes.
• Designed to be worn together or mixed strategically for different looks.
• Often released as seasonal collections, offering color stories and themes that reflected fashion trends of their era.

Why Collectors Love Complete Sets

• Visual impact: matched stones and finishes create a polished, couture look without fine-jewelry price tags.
• Rarity factor: intact sets are harder to find than single pieces, boosting desirability.
• Historical cohesion: a set tells a “design story,” capturing an era’s silhouette, palette, and craftsmanship in one ensemble.
• Versatility: mix-and-match options multiply outfits, from evening glam to casual highlights.

Creative Hallmarks of Vintage Designers

• Bold motifs: floral sprays, starbursts, fruit salad clusters, atomic shapes, Art Deco geometrics, and mid-century modern curves.
• Inventive construction: layered settings, open-backed stones for extra light, articulated links for movement, and hinged findings for comfort.
• Signature textures: Russian gold tones, rhodium plate, satin or brushed finishes, and hand-applied enamels.
• Playful color: from clear crystal to blazing aurora borealis, moonglow lucites, and candy-bright thermosets.

Materials That Set Vintage Apart

• Rhinestones: chaton, navette, pear, baguette, keystone—often prong set for durability and sparkle.
• Glass & crystal: givre, crackle, art glass, and foil-backed stones that mimic precious gems.
• Plastics & lucite: lightweight dimension in moonglow, confetti, and carved forms.
• Enamel: glossy color fields, guilloché effects, and painterly florals.
• Metalwork: rhodium, gold-tone, sometimes sterling findings; filigree stampings for delicate detail.

Iconic Designers & What to Look For

• Trifari: clean lines, refined metalwork, fruit and leaf motifs; look for well-engineered clasps and crisp signatures.
• Miriam Haskell: hand-wired construction, layered pearls and crystals, ornate filigrees; unsigned early pieces show impeccable wiring.
• Eisenberg: dramatic rhinestones, large brooches, stage-worthy sparkle; substantial weight and quality plating.
• Weiss: brilliant AB stones, icy palettes; prong-set rhinestones with strong light return.
• Hattie Carnegie: chic, fashion-forward silhouettes; enamel work and bold color pairings.
• Schreiner: inverted stones, unusual color combos, donut-style backs; high art appeal.
• Boucher: elegant, sculptural metalwork; refined details with couture sensibility.
• Lisner & Sarah Coventry: accessible trend pieces; great thermosets and seasonal designs.
• DeLizza & Elster (Juliana): large, layered rhinestone constructions; figure-eight puddling on the back, often unsigned.

How to Evaluate a Vintage Set

• Condition: check stone brightness, plating wear, secure prongs, smooth hinges, and functional clasps.
• Completeness: confirm matching components and consistent finishes; note any replacement clips or backs.
• Cohesion: color match across pieces (aging can shift tones); ensure stones and coatings align.
• Comfort: necklace lay, bracelet articulation, earring grip—all matter for real-world wear.
• Authenticity: signatures help; verify typical construction methods for the designer and era.

Styling Vintage Sets Today

• Full glam: wear the entire suite for evening, weddings, or gallery nights—statement made.
• Modern mix: pair the necklace with minimalist studs, or brooch with a clean blazer for contrast.
• Color play: echo one jewel tone from the set in shoes, bag, or scarf to unify the look.
• Daytime chic: use the bracelet alone with rolled sleeves; add the brooch to a denim jacket.
• Layering: combine two complementary necklaces of different lengths to frame the face.

Care & Storage for Longevity

• Avoid water, perfume, and hair spray; apply cosmetics first, then jewelry.
• Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth after wear to remove oils.
• Store pieces separately in pouches or lined compartments to prevent scratches and stone loss.
• Keep away from extreme heat and direct sunlight to protect coatings and adhesives.
• Inspect clasps and prongs periodically; address loose stones promptly.

Recognizing Creative Design Details

• Convertible pieces: brooches that clip into necklaces, or double-use dress clips.
• Engineering: hidden hinges, adjustable chains, and flexible links for comfort and fit.
• Light play: open-back mounts, foil-back crystals, and AB coatings for dynamic sparkle.
• Motif sophistication: asymmetry used intentionally to create movement and focus.
• Era cues: Deco geometry (1920s–30s), floral exuberance (1940s–50s), mod shapes (1960s).

Why Choose Jewelry Trader of Vintage Costume

• Curated selection: cohesive sets and standout singles chosen for design, condition, and wearability.
• Transparent details: clear notes on signatures, measurements, fit, and era-appropriate materials.
• Collector-friendly guidance: help pairing pieces, identifying matches, and caring for your finds.
• Local expertise: Orange County–based service with a passion for vintage creativity and history.

Sell Your Vintage Jewelry With Us

• If you own vintage costume jewelry—whether a full set, a single piece, or an entire collection—we’re interested.
• We buy vintage, antique, and designer costume jewelry directly and pay cash for valuables.
• Appointments are flexible: you can visit us in Orange County, or schedule a house appointment for added convenience.
• Our process is fast, respectful, and transparent, ensuring you receive fair value for your treasured items.
• Contact Jewelry Trader of Vintage Costume today to book an appointment and let us evaluate your pieces.