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How to save money and protect it from inflation? The best solution is to invest in commodities that retain their value. Even if you are not experienced in investing, you don’t need to fear taking this step. An experienced advisor knows precisely what is happening in the investment market and where it is best to place your money. Before seeking advice from an expert, let’s take a closer look at precious metals and gemstones – commodities that hold their value forever.

Finishing second can sometimes be a bit unpleasant, especially when only one can win. However, earning a silver medal at the Olympics is nothing to be ashamed of—quite the opposite. Silver graces not only the chests of outstanding athletes on the winners’ podium but also many a family’s cutlery drawer or display cabinet.  

Perhaps some of you still haven’t gathered all the Christmas presents and tokens of affection for your loved ones. How about solving it this time with an empty box in wrapping paper? You might be shaking your head, thinking: “What a crazy idea to give someone an empty container!” But if the box is an antique, it could actually be a unique gift!

Do you know what the Greek word "adámas" means? It means indestructible. And it is from this word that the word "diamond" originates. There must be some truth in it, because the diamond is the hardest natural material. The quality of a diamond is determined by its clarity, colour, weight, and cut. So, let's delve into this topic a bit.

Recently, we celebrated the centenary of the founding of independent Czechoslovakia. We reflected on the significant politicians, artists, inventors, entrepreneurs, and pivotal moments of the shared state – both hopeful and tragic. Especially the First Republic events, people, and their vital contributions have been frequently mentioned. Personally, I must mention that I have a collection of artifacts from the First Republic era, and it's sometimes nice to get lost in them.

When talking about diamonds as the "hardest tears of the gods," turquoise could rightfully be called the "gift of the gods." This is how it was referred to by both Native Americans and Persians. Mentions of turquoise mining on the Sinai Peninsula date back 10,000 years. This is confirmed by the discovery of an 8,000-year-old gold bracelet decorated with turquoise in the tomb of Egyptian Queen Zer.

Last year was marked by record-breaking prices for precious stones. At a time when certainties are collapsing, the investment icon known as gold plummeted in value by thirty percent, banks are printing money relentlessly, and tax havens are imposing progressive levies on deposits to avert state bankruptcy (in collaboration with politicians). The French President promised to tax capable individuals at a rate of 75%. Property prices, at best, stagnate. In contrast, the prices of precious stones...

An article for the magazine "Antiques and Arts" describing the developments in the world of antique jewellery during 2011.

Few nations in the world can boast a gemstone so closely linked to their identity as garnet is to the Czech people. Ironically, much of this can be credited to the Austrian Emperor and great admirer of Prague, Rudolf II. Under his reign, Prague became not only a cultural and artistic hub but also a centre for gem cutting and prospecting. The Emperor invested considerable resources in the search for precious stones. Prospectors were required to offer the largest and most beautiful gems to the...

If you wish to purchase pearls, it is unlikely you'll experience what happened to a customer at an unnamed German restaurant: finding a natural pearl in an ordered oyster. So instead of indulging in this delicacy, we must head to a shop and buy the pearls.

A diamond jewel is a phenomenon for which people have been, and still are, willing to do anything. It adorns the crowns of monarchs. Many women have succumbed to the words "Will you marry me?" at the sparkle of a carat diamond.

Have you ever found an item in your grandmother’s flat or in an old attic that left you puzzled? It could have been a painting, a photograph, a sculpture, or perhaps a porcelain doll. The television programme “Treasures from the Attic”, in which I appear along with other colleagues, uncovers many aspects of our antique trade, but mainly reveals various “treasures” found in attics.

Recently, I gave an interview for a professional publication where I was asked about many key facts that might also interest some readers of my blog.

Who hasn’t heard of Alfons Mucha’s posters, whose replicas once adorned many a Czech home? Mucha was a pioneer of Art Nouveau. Perhaps it’s thanks to his theatre posters for the actress Sarah Bernhardt that most of us recognise the aesthetics of Art Nouveau. But do you also know about Art Nouveau jewellery?

If you were to ask me, ladies, which piece of jewellery is timeless, elegant, and suits women of all ages, my answer would be: a pearl necklace. Pearls are perfect in their simplicity, and it’s interesting that they are associated with many myths and superstitions. However, the only thing you should believe is that they will suit you. I would even sign this in my own blood!

From my tales about the fascinating pearls, I could write a novel! Complete with a romantic subplot, as pearls enhance every woman’s charm, add elegance, and attract admirers. They also have a historical role – once used as currency and prominently featured in royal regalia. When I want to describe someone’s uniqueness, I often call them a ‘pearl.’ However, not all pearls are created equal!

The sea is perfectly turquoise today! Do you also write something like this to your friends while admiring the water on holiday? I do, because there’s nothing more beautiful than a sea surface tinted with the colour of a gemstone that Persians once called the “stone of the gods.”

A scene you know from films—or perhaps even your own life: a man kneels, takes out a velvet box, opens it, and with the words “Will you marry me?” presents a sparkling diamond ring. This magical moment becomes even more enchanting if it’s an antique ring—a piece with its own story.

Women adorn themselves with rings, necklaces, tiaras, brooches and other jewellery – this we all know and admire. But which piece of jewellery was traditionally a man's domain? Yes, that's right – watches. However, this is no longer the case, and even on delicate women's wrists, one can see remarkable watchmaking craftsmanship. Pocket watches were, are, and probably always will be, a male accessory.