How To Identify Whiting And Davis Jewelry
Okay, so you think you've stumbled upon a piece of Whiting and Davis jewelry? Awesome! Maybe you found it in your grandma's attic (score!), at a flea market, or even online. But how can you really know? Let’s grab a metaphorical coffee and figure this out together, shall we?
The Mesh Makes the Magic (Usually!)
Whiting and Davis are kinda famous for their mesh jewelry. I mean, seriously famous. We're talking the "queen bee" of mesh, people! Think delicate, almost fabric-like metal. That’s the signature look. But, hold on! Not all mesh is W&D, unfortunately. Wouldn't that be easy, though?
The quality of the mesh is key. Is it smooth? Does it drape nicely? Or does it feel cheap and scratchy? Whiting and Davis used high-quality materials, so the mesh should feel luxurious, even after all these years. If it feels like something you could buy at a dollar store...well, you probably know the answer.
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Look for the Mark(s)!
This is the big one, folks! The hallmark. Whiting and Davis were pretty good about marking their pieces, which is a major plus for us sleuths. But (there's always a but, isn't there?), the markings can be tiny, worn, or sometimes even missing. Gasp!
What to look for? Well, naturally, "Whiting & Davis Co." is the gold standard (or should I say, mesh standard?). But you might also see "W&D," "Whiting & Davis Mesh Bags," or even just a tiny "Mesh" stamped somewhere. Get out your magnifying glass! You might need it. And maybe a good cup of coffee to keep those eyes peeled.
Important Note: Early pieces sometimes only have a paper tag. Obviously, those are often long gone. So, no tag doesn't automatically disqualify a piece, but it does make things a bit trickier, doesn't it?
The Style Tells a Story
Whiting and Davis spanned many eras, and their designs changed with the times. Think Art Deco glamour, Victorian romance, and even some funky 70s vibes! Does the style look like it fits the era? Do a little Googling! Seriously, Google Image Search is your friend. See what comparable pieces look like.
Are there unique design elements? Enamel detailing? Intricate clasps? Look closely. Whiting and Davis often added special touches that set their jewelry apart. It’s all about the details, darling!
The Condition Counts (But Doesn't Always Matter)
Okay, so vintage jewelry isn't always perfect. Expect some wear and tear. A little tarnish is normal. A missing stone? Not ideal, but not a deal-breaker necessarily. What is a problem? Major damage, like broken mesh or a completely mangled clasp. Unless you're a jewelry repair wizard, you might want to think twice.
However! Don't automatically dismiss something just because it's a little tarnished. Sometimes, a good cleaning can work wonders! Plus, a bit of age can add character. It's all about personal preference, right?
Trust Your Gut (and Do Your Homework!)
Ultimately, identifying vintage jewelry is a bit of an art and a science. Does it feel right? Does the quality seem good? Have you compared it to other known Whiting and Davis pieces? Did you remember to check for the hallmark (again!)?
If you're still unsure, consider consulting an expert. A reputable antique dealer or appraiser can offer valuable insights. Plus, they've probably seen tons of Whiting and Davis pieces in their time. Worth the investment, maybe?
So, good luck on your Whiting and Davis treasure hunt! May the mesh be with you! And remember, even if it isn't the real deal, if you love it, that's all that matters, isn't it?
