FAQ'S
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Antique & Vintage Jewellery
At SoBi & Co, we specialise in carefully curated antique and vintage jewellery – handpicked for its charm, character and affordability. Below you’ll find answers to our most frequently asked questions about buying, sizing, condition, delivery and caring for your one-of-a-kind treasure.
If you don’t see your question here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’re always happy to help.
Why buy antique and vintage jewellery instead of new?
Choosing antique or vintage jewellery means:
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You own something truly one-of-a-kind, no mass production, no endless copies
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You’re supporting sustainable, circular fashion by giving beautiful pieces a new chapter
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You’re helping reduce the demand for newly mined materials and fast fashion jewellery
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You benefit from superior historic craftsmanship and time-honoured techniques
Your piece already carries decades of story, sentiment and character
In a world of throwaway trends and mass-manufactured sparkle, antique and vintage jewellery is a conscious choice, slower, more meaningful and made to last.
At SoBi & Co, every jewel has a past, and now you get to be part of its future.
How do I know my ring size?
You can:
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Visit a local jeweller for professional sizing
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Download our ring sizing guide
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Order one of our reusable ring sizers
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Measure a ring you already wear on the same finger
We list each ring’s current UK/US size in the description.
Many antique and vintage rings can be resized, depending on the design and setting. Contact us before purchasing if you’d like advice on resizing options.
Do you offer ring resizing?
We can advise on resizing suitability before purchase.
Because many of our rings feature intricate antique settings (such as Art Deco mounts or engraved Victorian bands), resizing must be assessed individually.
If resizing is possible, we can arrange re-sizing at extra cost (typically around £30-£80 depending on size and material)
Are your pieces genuine antique and vintage jewellery?
Yes. Every piece at SoBi & Co is genuine antique or vintage jewellery.
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Antique jewellery is typically over 100 years old
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Vintage jewellery usually dates from the 1920s–1990s
We carefully source and authenticate each item for age, materials and craftsmanship. You’ll find beautiful examples from the Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco and mid-century eras throughout our collection.
Are your diamonds and gemstones real?
Unless clearly stated otherwise, all diamonds and gemstones in our listings are genuine.
This includes:
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Natural diamonds
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Genuine sapphires, emeralds and rubies
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Birthstones such as amethyst, aquamarine and garnet
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Occasionally paste or vintage simulated stones (clearly disclosed)
Each listing will specify whether stones are natural, synthetic or paste. Transparency is incredibly important to us.
Is antique jewellery good for everyday wear?
In many cases, yes. Antique and vintage jewellery was made to be worn and loved. However, as pre-loved pieces, some items are more suitable for occasional wear, particularly older antique rings with finer settings.
We always include a detailed condition report in each product description so you can buy with confidence. If you're considering an antique engagement ring or everyday ring, feel free to message us for personalised guidance.
What condition will the jewellery be in?
Our pieces are pre-loved, not brand new, and that’s part of their magic.
We carefully inspect every item and describe its condition honestly and clearly.
Expect:
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Light surface wear consistent with age
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Beautiful patina on antique gold
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Secure stone settings (unless noted)
Any flaws, chips, thinning bands or repairs will always be clearly detailed and photographed.
We would never sell a piece that isn’t wearable.
Is antique jewellery a good investment?
Antique and vintage jewellery often holds its value exceptionally well due to:
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Solid gold and platinum content
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Natural diamonds and gemstones
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Craftsmanship that’s difficult to replicate today
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Increasing scarcity of genuine period pieces
While jewellery should primarily be chosen for love and enjoyment, many antique pieces retain long-term value beautifully.
Do you offer gift packaging?
Yes. Every piece is carefully and securely packaged, ready to gift and made to feel truly special from the moment it’s opened.
We specialise in meaningful gifts - whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, push present or a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, and we take pride in creating a beautiful experience from checkout to unboxing.
Our presentation is luxurious and high quality, designed to complement the character of each jewel. For those purchasing as a gift, we also offer luxury gift bags to elevate the moment even further. Please see our luxury gift bags here.
If you are buying as a gift and would prefer pricing details to be omitted, simply let us know, we’re happy to help.
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How long does delivery take?
Orders are typically dispatched the next working day. During particularly busy periods, please allow 1–3 working days for dispatch. If you need your order urgently, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@sobiandco.co.uk - we’ll always do our very best to help.
All UK orders are carefully and securely packaged and sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery. International orders are dispatched using a fully tracked and insured shipping service.
Estimated international delivery is usually 3–5 working days, depending on the destination.
If you require your jewellery for a specific date or special occasion, please get in touch before placing your order and we’ll do everything we can to ensure it arrives in time.
For full details, please see our Delivery & Returns page.
What is your returns policy?
We want you to absolutely love your treasure.
If for any reason you are not completely happy with your purchase, please contact us within 14 days of receipt to arrange a return.
Items must be returned in their original condition.
Please see our full Returns Policy page for complete details.
