Lately when I go to antique shows and flea markets, I've been trying to focus more on higher end pieces of antique jewelry.  They definitely cost more, but seem worth the extra expense to me because I end up with heirloom pieces of jewelry.  See what you think of these treasures:


This is an OLLLLLLD micro mosaic piece from Italy.  The colored chips are unbelievably tiny.  It's a very early piece and a dead giveaway to that is the extra long pin you can see coming out from behind.


These three are unset cameos.  Made of shell and absolutely gorgeous.  These make me a little nervous because I have to drill holes in order to use them.  Cameos tend to dry out.  To combat this, you are supposed to wipe them down occasionally with mineral oil.  I soaked these babies over night in mineral oil and I'm STILL nervous about drilling them.  But I will!


This is an unmounted cameo.  It's stunningly beautiful.  It's never been mounted on a piece of shell.  I'm very grateful it was already drilled!

This is a gorgeous piece too!  It's hand carved from deer antler.  This is obvious when you look at the back.