If you’re tired of the stock market’s daily gyrations, owning antique jewelry may a more soothing investment.

To avoid getting stuck with a lemon, new collectors of antique jewelry are well-advised to purchase from a retailer with a reputation for honesty, integrity and good taste.

As you learn more about antique jewelry, you’ll learn how to spot a good investment and avoid the dregs.

The best way to start learning is by purchasing a jeweler’s loupe (pronounced “loop”) from an optical supplier.

A loupe will let you get a closer look at an item of jewelry to determine if the piece is in good condition. It will also send a clear signal to a jeweler that you’re not a complete novice.

You’ll want a 10 X triplet loupe because any flaws that do not show up under 10 X magnification are considered non-existent for grading purposes by the Federal Trade Commission.

A 10 X triplet also eliminates two problems that other lenses have: color and visual distortion at the outer edge of the lens.

Learn how to hold the loupe and item being examined correctly: each between the thumb and forefinger of either hand.

Bring both thumbs together with the thumb holding the loupe resting on top of the other thumb.

Move your hands close to your face. The loupe should be one inch from an eye and one inch from the item being examined.

Rotate the item, looking for seams and solder joints that indicate a repair. Repairs are not necessarily bad, but they should be consistent in quality with the original piece.

Become familiar with French and British antique jewelry hallmarks and look for them under the loupe.

You may find an unbelievable investment right under your nose.