The history of a piece of jewelry is known as its provenance. An item once owned by a famous person can be very valuable.
Provenance increases value only when it can be proven.
A pin belonging to Susan B Anthony, the famous suffragette was purchased from her niece, along with a photograph of Miss. Anthony wearing it. There is no doubt about the provenance of the piece. Intrinsic Value Jewelry that contains a very large and valuable single stone is considered important. Fine rubies or emeralds over 2 carats and diamonds over 3 carats fall into this category. An item is also considered important if it is composed of many smaller diamonds totalling six carats or more.