Category: Blog

Thank you so much for your purchase! Your support means the world to us, and we’re thrilled to share this special piece with you. We hope you love it as much as we do! If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Warm regards,

To determine how much money your business, Ex. “Daunais Vintage”, needs, you can follow these steps:

1. Estimate Startup Costs

Identify all upfront expenses for starting and maintaining your business (inventory, tools, branding, website costs, etc.).

Example categories:

Inventory: Vintage items purchased or yet to be sourced.

Tools/Software: Ex. Oneshop ($45/month), Photoroom ($4.99/week), ChatGPT ($19.99/month) subscription.

Marketing/Branding: Logo, ads, social media boosts.

Shipping Supplies: Boxes, labels, packaging.

2. Calculate Monthly Operating Costs

Include fixed costs like subscriptions, rent (if applicable), and shipping costs.

Account for variable costs, such as inventory replenishment and marketing.

Add a buffer for unexpected expenses.

3. Set Revenue Goals

Define how much you aim to sell monthly and how much profit you want to make per sale.

Use your pricing strategy to estimate sales volume needed to cover expenses and desired income.

4. Determine Breakeven Point

Calculate when your revenue will equal expenses to understand when you’ll turn a profit.

Formula: Breakeven = Fixed Costs ÷ (Price per Item – Variable Cost per Item).

5. Plan for Growth

Consider additional funds needed for scaling, like increasing inventory or boosting marketing.

Include reserves for reinvesting in your business.

6. Create a Budget

Organize your projected income and expenses into a budget.

Use tools like spreadsheets or budgeting software for accuracy.

You’re absolutely right! The style of the clip or screw back used on vintage earrings can be a great clue in dating them. Here’s a quick overview of how different types of clips and screw backs were used across the decades:

1. 1920s-1930s:

• Screw Back Earrings: Introduced in the early 1900s, these were widely used through the 1920s-30s. Screw back earrings have a small screw that tightens to hold the earring in place. This type of closure was popular because it was adjustable and allowed for a snug fit without the need for pierced ears.
• Style Features: Typically simple and functional, but paired with highly ornate Art Deco designs.

2. 1940s:

• Screw Back & Clip-On Combination: In the 1940s, screw backs were still very common, but clip-ons started gaining popularity, especially for more fashion-forward jewelry designs.
• Early Clip-On Earrings: These had a hinge with a pressure clip, applying pressure to hold the earring on the earlobe.
• Style Features: Designs often featured larger, statement pieces to match the bold jewelry trends of the era.

3. 1950s:

• Clip-On Earrings: The 1950s saw the widespread use of clip-on earrings, which became the dominant style. They were easy to use and allowed women to wear larger, heavier earrings that were in vogue during this decade.
• Screw-Back & Clip Combo: Some earrings from this time had both a screw and clip mechanism, allowing for an extra secure fit.
• Style Features: Clip-ons were popular with the classic “button” earrings, which often had domed or circular shapes.

4. 1960s:

• Clip-On Earrings: Clip-ons continued to dominate the 1960s. The designs became more experimental, often reflecting the mod and pop art influences of the time.
• Style Features: Earrings were frequently bold and colorful, often featuring materials like enamel or lucite. The clips themselves became more streamlined.

5. 1970s:

• Clip-On Earrings: Still the go-to for non-pierced earrings, but many designs started becoming larger and more ornate, reflecting the boho-chic and disco styles of the decade.
• Style Features: Large, dangling earrings were common, with clip-ons providing a secure hold for bigger designs.

6. 1980s:

• Clip-On Earrings: The clip-ons of the 1980s tended to be oversized and exaggerated to match the bold fashion of the era. Large hoops, geometric shapes, and gold-tone metal dominated.
• Style Features: Earrings often had decorative hinges and padding on the clips for comfort due to the size and weight of the pieces.

7. 1990s-2000s:

• Clip-On & Post Backs: While ear piercing became more common, clip-ons remained in use, particularly for costume jewelry brands. The designs became more lightweight and streamlined.
• Style Features: Designs became more minimal, moving away from the large, statement pieces of the 80s.

Reference Photos:

To help date your earrings more precisely, you could look for reference photos online or vintage jewelry books that provide visual guides on clip-on mechanisms. Pinterest, vintage jewelry forums, and websites like Etsy often have detailed images of vintage clips by decade. Auction sites like Sotheby’s and Christie’s also occasionally provide detailed images and descriptions that include information about the earring back types used.

Clip-on earrings have been popular since the early 20th century, especially for women who did not have pierced ears. Over time, the hardware and mechanisms used for these earrings evolved, reflecting changes in fashion, technology, and comfort. Here’s a breakdown of clip-on earring hardware by decade:

1920s-1930s: The Rise of Clip-On Earrings

Hardware:

• Screw Back Earrings: One of the earliest forms of clip-on hardware, the screw back mechanism was patented in 1894. It featured an adjustable screw that allowed the wearer to tighten the earring against the earlobe without needing a pierced ear. These were common in the 1920s-1930s, especially with the rise of Art Deco designs.
• Spring Clips: In the late 1920s, the first spring clip design emerged. This hardware involved a simple hinge and spring mechanism that clasped the earring onto the earlobe. It was less adjustable than the screw back but more convenient to wear.

Design Influence:

• Art Deco and geometric designs were prevalent during this time. Clip-on earrings often featured bold shapes, intricate filigree, and rhinestones or Bakelite, a popular early plastic material.

1940s: Wartime Practicality and Glamour

Hardware:

• Screw Back Earrings: Continued to be popular, especially since they provided a secure hold and were adjustable.
• Hinge Clips (Clip Backs): The spring-loaded hinge clips became more widespread, evolving from their simpler predecessors. They featured a small, hinged arm that pressed the earring against the lobe. This type of clip became a hallmark of the decade.

Design Influence:

• During World War II, materials like plastics, wood, and base metals became more common in jewelry due to shortages of precious metals. Earrings were often large and dramatic to add glamour to simpler wartime attire. Costume jewelry boomed in popularity, and clip-on earrings were often seen in matching sets.

1950s: Mid-Century Elegance

Hardware:

• Clip Backs: Refined versions of the hinge clip became the standard. These clips were generally padded for comfort and featured a more curved shape to fit the contour of the earlobe.
• Omega Back Clip: This was introduced in the 1950s and featured a clip with a small loop that hooked over the earlobe. It was a more secure design and was used in both high-end and costume jewelry.

Design Influence:

• The 1950s were characterized by classic and elegant designs, often featuring pearls, rhinestones, and metallic finishes. Earrings were more refined compared to the bold styles of previous decades, and clip-on earrings were ubiquitous in both formal and everyday wear.

1960s: Mod Fashion and Bold Designs

Hardware:

• Paddle Back Clip: This style became popular in the 1960s. The paddle back clip featured a larger, flatter clip that provided more surface area for securing the earring to the ear. It was a more comfortable and secure option for the large, statement earrings that were popular in this decade.
• Cushion Clips: To enhance comfort, cushion clips (which included a small padded area where the clip met the earlobe) were used on heavier earrings, ensuring they could be worn for longer periods without discomfort.

Design Influence:

• The 1960s brought a wave of bold and colorful jewelry. Pop art, mod fashion, and avant-garde styles influenced earrings, which often featured oversized, geometric shapes, bright plastics, and unconventional materials. Clip-ons were perfect for these larger, statement earrings.

1970s: Boho and Disco Eras

Hardware:

• Flexible Clip-On: In the 1970s, more flexible, softer clip-on mechanisms became popular. These clips applied less pressure than earlier models, making them more comfortable to wear, especially with larger, more dramatic designs.
• Lever-Back Clip: The lever-back style evolved from the omega clip, providing a similar but more flexible and comfortable hold. It remained secure while being easier to open and close.
• Magnetic Clip-On: Magnetic earrings started to appear, using strong magnets to hold the earring in place without the need for a clip. These were relatively new and less common but provided a novel approach to clip-on earrings.

Design Influence:

• The 1970s saw two major design trends: bohemian (natural materials like wood and feathers) and disco (glamorous, sparkly pieces). Clip-on earrings often featured larger hoops, dangling styles, or oversized geometric shapes made from lightweight metals or plastics.

1980s: Power Dressing and Excess

Hardware:

• Paddle Back Clip: Remained popular, as the 1980s saw the resurgence of oversized, statement jewelry. The wide paddle clip provided necessary support for the often heavy earrings of this period.
• Screw-Hinge Clips: A hybrid of the screw-back and hinge clip designs emerged, allowing the wearer to adjust the tension while having the convenience of a spring clip mechanism.

Design Influence:

• The 1980s were characterized by excess and bold fashion. Earrings were often large, chunky, and used bright, metallic materials or neon colors. Clip-ons were favored for their ability to support large, dramatic designs without the need for piercing. Earrings often matched power suits and over-the-top evening attire.

1990s: Minimalism and Reinterpretation

Hardware:

• Hinge Clips: Continued to be popular for those who didn’t have pierced ears, but overall, clip-on earrings became less common as ear-piercing became more widely accepted.
• Magnetic Earrings: Became slightly more common as an alternative for those who wanted a less obtrusive way to wear earrings without clips.

Design Influence:

• The 1990s saw a shift from the maximalist styles of the 1980s to more minimalist and sleek designs. Clip-on earrings were typically smaller and less bold than in previous decades, but they were still used in formal settings, often with pearls or simple metallic designs.

2000s-Present: Revival of Vintage and New Innovations

Hardware:

• Cushioned Clips and Comfort Clips: Modern clip-ons are often padded for comfort, making them much more wearable for long periods. Clips are also lighter and more ergonomically designed to prevent pinching.
• Magnetic Earrings: Have become more refined, with stronger, lightweight magnets that are less bulky and more comfortable.
• Convertible Pierced/Clip-On Earrings: Many earrings today are designed to convert between pierced and clip-on versions, offering more flexibility for consumers.

Design Influence:

• There has been a resurgence of interest in vintage and retro styles, and clip-on earrings from earlier decades are highly collectible. Modern designers often take inspiration from the bold styles of the 1950s-1980s, but now with a focus on comfort and wearability. There’s also a growing trend for sustainable and upcycled materials, with new designs emerging for both fashion and function.

Conclusion:

Clip-on earring hardware has evolved significantly since the early 20th century, adapting to fashion trends and technological advancements. From the early screw backs to modern cushioned and magnetic options, the focus has shifted toward increasing comfort and convenience while maintaining secure fit for large and bold earring designs across various eras.

Based on the designs of these jackets, they most likely date to the 1980s, though they could overlap into the early 1990s. Here’s why:

1980s Design Characteristics:

1. Bold and Dramatic: The colorful abstract patterns, exaggerated designs, and heavy use of sequins and beading reflect the maximalist aesthetic of the 1980s.
2. Shoulder Focus: Jackets from this era often had padded shoulders or exaggerated shapes to emphasize power dressing and a strong silhouette, even if subtle in these pieces.
3. Luxurious Embellishments: The dense sequin and beadwork, especially in vibrant and metallic color combinations, is very much in line with 1980s eveningwear trends.
4. Opulence and Glamour: The focus on “statement pieces” for events and parties aligns more with the 1980s fashion ethos.

1990s Influence:

1. Carryover Trends: The early 1990s borrowed heavily from the 1980s, particularly in eveningwear, so some of these jackets could be from the late ’80s to early ’90s. However, by the mid-1990s, simpler, minimalistic styles began replacing these bold, highly embellished designs.
2. Subdued Examples: Pieces like the Black and Gold Rope Motif Jacket might lean closer to the 1990s due to its slightly more understated design, though still likely early in the decade.

Conclusion:

Most of the jackets are likely 1980s pieces, with a possibility of some crossing into the early 1990s. If the labels are intact, checking for manufacturing details or style codes could help pinpoint their era more precisely.

Here’s how these vintage beaded sequin jackets can be categorized as regular or trophy pieces:

1. Colorful Abstract Sequin Jacket (Top Left):
   • Trophy Piece: The vibrant, multicolored abstract pattern combined with intricate detailing and bold design makes this a standout, highly collectible piece. The striking color-blocking and unique design elevate it beyond a regular item.
2. Black and Gold Rope Motif Jacket (Top Right):
   • Regular Piece: While elegant and stylish, the design is more subdued and less intricate compared to trophy pieces. The repeating rope motif and simpler color palette make it more common in the vintage market.
3. Blue and Green Paisley Sequin Jacket (Bottom Left):
   • Trophy Piece: The intricate paisley design, bold color combination, and detailed craftsmanship place this in the trophy category. The vibrant blue and green tones stand out as a distinctive and highly desirable vintage design.
4. Gold and Black Leaf Motif Jacket (Bottom Right):
   • Trophy Piece: The luxurious gold leaf pattern on the flowing black base, combined with dense beading and sequins, reflects the craftsmanship and opulence typical of trophy pieces. Its timeless elegance makes it highly collectible.

In summary: The Colorful Abstract, Blue and Green Paisley, and Gold and Black Leaf jackets are trophy pieces, while the Black and Gold Rope Motif jacket leans toward being a regular piece due to its simpler design.

The difference between a vintage beaded sequin trophy dress/jacket and a regular beaded sequin dress made in the 1980s-1990s lies primarily in design intent, craftsmanship, and rarity:

1. Trophy Dress/Jacket:

• Statement Piece: Trophy pieces are designed to be bold, dramatic, and eye-catching. They often feature intricate and elaborate beadwork or sequins in striking patterns, unique motifs, or luxurious designs.
• Craftsmanship: These pieces typically demonstrate a higher level of handwork, with detailed and meticulous embellishments that set them apart from mass-produced designs.
• Rarity and Value: Trophy pieces are often considered “collectible” due to their distinctiveness and limited production. They’re sought after by vintage collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
• Design Features: They may include unique shapes, heavy embellishments, exaggerated shoulders, or intricate detailing (e.g., floral motifs, geometric designs, or art-deco influences).
• Material Quality: Higher-quality fabrics (silk or velvet), dense beadwork, or a combination of sequins and specialty materials.

2. Regular Beaded Sequin Dress/Jacket:

• Fashion Trend: Regular beaded or sequined pieces from the 1980s-1990s reflect popular styles of the time but are more common and mass-produced.
• Simpler Designs: These dresses or jackets might have less intricate patterns or repetitive designs, such as basic floral or striped motifs.
• Craftsmanship: While still handmade in some cases, the craftsmanship may not be as refined or as densely detailed as a trophy piece.
• Rarity: These are less rare and often more affordable compared to trophy pieces.
• Material: Could include synthetic blends or slightly less luxurious fabrics, with beadwork or sequins not as densely applied.

Summary:

• Trophy pieces are standout collectibles with intricate designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and rarity, making them premium items.
• Regular pieces reflect popular trends of their era but lack the exclusivity and craftsmanship of trophy items.

When pricing or describing these, emphasizing the distinction in craftsmanship, design, and collectability is key.

An appraisal is an expert’s assessment of the value of an item, property, or asset. It serves a variety of purposes, from insurance coverage to resale, tax implications, and estate planning. Here’s a comprehensive deep dive into how appraisals work:

1. What is an Appraisal?

An appraisal determines the current market value of an object or property. It’s conducted by a qualified professional, called an appraiser, who evaluates the item’s characteristics, condition, market trends, and comparable sales to establish its worth.

2. Types of Appraisals

• Real Estate Appraisals: Commonly used for home purchases, refinancing, or property tax assessments.
• Jewelry Appraisals: Evaluate the value of gemstones, metals, craftsmanship, and provenance.
• Art Appraisals: Assess fine art pieces for their historical significance, market demand, and authenticity.
• Antique & Vintage Appraisals: Focus on unique, older items with collectible or historical value.
• Vehicle Appraisals: For classic cars or determining the value of damaged vehicles.
• Business Appraisals: Evaluate a company’s worth, often for sales or mergers.

3. When Are Appraisals Needed?

• Buying/Selling: Ensures fair pricing for both buyer and seller.
• Insurance: To determine coverage limits for high-value items or assets.
• Taxes/Estate Planning: Establish values for inheritance or estate distribution.
• Legal Disputes: Resolve ownership or divorce-related asset division.
• Charitable Donations: Document value for tax deductions.
• Damage Claims: Assess loss value for insurance reimbursement.

4. The Appraisal Process

Step 1: Preparation

• Gather documentation: provenance, previous appraisals, purchase receipts, and certifications.
• Identify the appraisal purpose (e.g., resale, insurance, tax).

Step 2: Examination

• Physical Inspection: Appraisers examine the item or property in person or via detailed photos/videos.
  • For real estate: Check the structure, layout, and features.
  • For jewelry: Analyze gemstones, settings, and materials.
  • For antiques: Look for hallmarks, condition, and signs of authenticity.
• Condition Assessment: Evaluate wear, repairs, or damage.

Step 3: Research

• Appraisers use:
  • Market databases for comparable sales.
  • Historical records and industry catalogs.
  • Specialized knowledge of trends, scarcity, and demand.

Step 4: Valuation

• Appraisers use one or more methods:
  • Market Approach: Compare similar items sold in the marketplace.
  • Cost Approach: Estimate replacement or reproduction cost.
  • Income Approach: For businesses or income-producing properties.

Step 5: Reporting

• The appraisal is documented in a formal report, often including:
  • Detailed description of the item.
  • Valuation methodology.
  • Photos of the item.
  • Final appraised value.

5. Qualifications of an Appraiser

A credible appraiser has:

• Certification: From professional organizations like:
  • Appraisers Association of America (AAA)
  • National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA)
  • American Society of Appraisers (ASA)
• Experience: Specialized knowledge in their field.
• Ethical Standards: Adheres to Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).

6. Factors Influencing Appraisal Value

• Condition: Wear, damage, or modifications can decrease value.
• Authenticity: Provenance and documentation boost credibility.
• Market Trends: Supply, demand, and trends affect worth.
• Rarity: Unique or hard-to-find items often appraise higher.
• Replacement Cost: The current cost to replace the item or property.

7. Costs of an Appraisal

• Fees: Can range from flat rates ($50-$500+) to hourly rates ($100-$300/hour).
• Complexity: High-value or rare items may require more time and expertise.

8. Common Challenges in Appraisals

• Subjectivity: Value can vary between appraisers.
• Fraudulent Appraisals: Some may inflate value for resale or insurance.
• Market Fluctuations: Values may quickly change with market trends.
• Limited Comparables: Unique items with no recent sales data can be hard to appraise.

9. Maintaining Appraised Value

• For high-value items, periodic appraisals are recommended, typically every 3-5 years, to account for market changes.

10. Tips for Getting a Good Appraisal

• Work with certified professionals.
• Be transparent about the item’s history.
• Avoid appraisers with a vested interest in buying/selling the item.
• Use appraisals for their intended purpose to avoid complications.

Appraisals are essential for accurately determining the value of items or properties and ensuring informed decisions in sales, insurance, and legal matters.

Jewelry made during the British colonial period in Hong Kong (roughly 1950s–1980s) showcases a fascinating blend of traditional Asian aesthetics and Western trends. Here’s an overview of what you might find in terms of styles, materials, and time periods:

1950s–1960s

• Key Features:
  • Floral Motifs: Inspired by nature, with designs featuring blossoms, leaves, and vines.
  • Clip-On Earrings: Widely produced due to the popularity of non-pierced styles.
  • Matching Sets (Parures): Jewelry sets often included earrings, brooches, and necklaces, with coordinated designs.
• Popular Materials:
  • Faux pearls and glass beads.
  • Rhinestones, often in colorful arrays.
  • Enamel accents for intricate, painted details.
• Styles:
  • Chandelier Earrings: Dangling pieces with lots of sparkle, perfect for evening wear.
  • Brooches: Pin-on accessories featuring elaborate shapes like birds, flowers, or fans.
  • Statement Necklaces: Bold, multi-strand necklaces featuring beads or pearls.

1970s

• Key Features:
  • Bold Colors: Reflecting the influence of 1970s fashion, with earthy tones like amber, green, and gold.
  • Minimalism and Geometric Shapes: Sleek designs with clean lines became more popular during this decade.
• Popular Materials:
  • Resin and Lucite for lightweight, colorful pieces.
  • Natural stones like jade and tiger’s eye.
  • Metals, often gold-tone or mixed with other finishes.
• Styles:
  • Hoop Earrings: Both small and oversized, often featuring Lucite or enamel accents.
  • Pendants: Long chain necklaces with large, often geometric pendants.
  • Cuff Bracelets: Wide, bold bracelets, sometimes featuring intricate carvings or inlays.

1980s

• Key Features:
  • Glamorous and Oversized: Jewelry grew larger and flashier to match the bold fashion trends of the era.
  • Mixed Materials: Combinations of metal, beads, and enamel created eye-catching contrasts.
• Popular Materials:
  • Rhinestones, often paired with faux gold or silver.
  • Colorful enamel and plastic.
  • Swarovski-style crystals for an extra dose of glam.
• Styles:
  • Statement Earrings: Big, chunky, and often geometric.
  • Beaded Necklaces: Often layered for dramatic effect.
  • Pins and Brooches: Featuring whimsical or novelty designs like animals or abstract art.

Traditional and Export Pieces (Across All Decades)

• Jade Jewelry: Hong Kong was famous for producing jade pendants, rings, and bracelets, often intricately carved.
• Beaded Accessories: Jewelry made with tiny seed beads in floral or geometric patterns, especially in necklaces and earrings.
• Hand-Carved Bone and Ivory: These were used in bracelets and earrings, often depicting traditional motifs.
• Cloisonné Enamel: Delicate, colorful designs on bangles, pendants, and earrings.

Export Market and Hallmarks

• Many pieces were exported to the West and bear labels such as “Made in Hong Kong” or “Hong Kong.”
• Jewelry marked “Hong Kong” often aligns with costume jewelry but reflects excellent craftsmanship and timeless appeal.

Vintage items from the British colony of Hong Kong, such as wicker/weaved basket bags, beaded clutches, and earrings, hold a special place in the vintage market due to their exquisite craftsmanship and global export popularity during the mid-20th century. Here’s a detailed overview:

1. Wicker/Weaved Pieces (Basket-Shaped Bags)

• Features:
  • Made with natural materials like rattan, bamboo, or wicker.
  • Often shaped as baskets, these bags were both functional and decorative.
  • Unique details like leather straps, wooden handles, or floral embroidery.
  • Lightweight and durable, perfect for summer and resort wear.
• Popularity:
  • Favored for their timeless aesthetic and eco-friendly materials.
  • Associated with the mid-century “vacation” look, often seen in 1950s and 1960s fashion.

2. Beaded Clutches and Purses

• Features:
  • Made with tiny glass seed beads, sometimes hand-sewn into intricate patterns.
  • Designs ranged from floral motifs to geometric patterns, often in pastel or metallic hues.
  • Interior linings were typically satin or silk, with “Made in Hong Kong” labels stitched inside.
  • Hardware often included kiss-lock clasps or delicate chains for optional shoulder carrying.
• Use:
  • Popular as evening bags or formal wear accessories.
  • Valued for their elegance and attention to detail.

3. Earrings

• Features:
  • Clip-on earrings were especially popular, as they suited non-pierced ears.
  • Designs often included rhinestones, faux pearls, enamel accents, or intricate beading.
  • Materials included base metals, lucite, and occasionally precious metals for higher-end pieces.
• Styles:
  • Studs, dangling chandelier designs, and floral motifs were common.
  • Often paired with matching necklaces or brooches for full sets.

4. Other Handmade and Exported Items

• Hand-Carved Jewelry:
  • Bracelets and brooches made of jade, wood, or bone.
  • Traditional Chinese symbols like dragons or floral motifs were common themes.
• Beaded Dresses and Jackets:
  • Ornate beading on delicate fabrics like silk or organza, showcasing high craftsmanship.
  • Exported for luxury markets in the West.
• Decorative Fans:
  • Hand-painted silk or lace fans with wooden or bamboo ribs, often sold as souvenirs.
• Embroidered Textiles:
  • Table runners, napkins, or handkerchiefs featuring intricate hand embroidery.

Why These Items Were Exported

• Global Demand: Hong Kong became a hub for high-quality, affordable handmade goods during the mid-20th century.
• Skilled Artisanship: Craftsmen in Hong Kong were known for blending traditional techniques with Western-inspired designs.
• Ease of Shipping: Lightweight and compact items like jewelry, clutches, and embroidered textiles were ideal for export.

Modern Appeal

• Sustainability: These durable, handmade items align with current eco-conscious fashion trends.
• Nostalgia: Their mid-century charm resonates with collectors and those seeking unique, timeless pieces.
• Styling:
  • Wicker bags: Perfect for casual summer outfits or coastal vibes.
  • Beaded clutches: Pair beautifully with modern formalwear.
  • Earrings: Add a touch of vintage elegance to any look.