Vanity Accessories Value & Price Guide

Collectible vanity accessories represent a golden era of personal grooming, ranging from ornate Victorian silver to sleek Mid-Century Lucite. These pieces served as both functional tools and decorative status symbols for the dressing tables of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Price Range: $75 - $100 based on recent sales

History of Vanity Accessories

The evolution of vanity accessories mirrors the shifting aesthetic movements of the last two centuries. During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, heavy sterling silver and intricate repoussé patterns were the standard for high-society boudoirs. As the 20th century progressed, the Art Deco movement introduced geometric designs and new materials like celluloid and early plastics, making stylish vanity sets accessible to the growing middle class. By the mid-20th century, Hollywood Regency styles brought glamour through gold-toned brass and clear Lucite, reflecting the cinematic influence of the era. Today, contemporary designers like Jay Strongwater continue this legacy by creating jewel-encrusted pieces that bridge the gap between functional accessory and fine art.

Value Factors for Vanity Accessories

The typical price range for Vanity Accessories is $75 - $100 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Material rarity, such as sterling silver versus silver plate or hand-painted porcelain versus printed patterns.
• Completeness of sets, where having the original brush, comb, and mirror together commands a premium price.
• Maker's marks and brand prestige, with names like Jay Strongwater or Tiffany & Co. holding higher resale value.
• The condition of decorative elements like enamel work, inset crystals, or intricate filigree.

Tips for Buying Vanity Accessories

• Inspect the silvering on mirrors for dark spots or 'desilvering' which can significantly impact the display value.
• Check celluloid and early plastic items for signs of 'celluloid rot,' characterized by a vinegar smell or cracking.
• Verify hallmarks on sterling silver pieces to distinguish between solid precious metal and silver-plated brass.
• Look for original silk linings in dresser sets, as intact fabric interiors greatly increase the desirability for collectors.

Items in This Collection

• Celluloid Hand Mirror
• Brass Vanity Mirror
• Jay Strongwater Compact Mirror
• Sterling Silver Hand Mirror
• Art Deco Hand Mirror
• Vintage Porcelain Vanity Set
• Celluloid Vanity Dresser Set
• Vintage Silver Plated Vanity Set
• Victorian-Style Hand Mirror
• Art Nouveau Vanity Mirror
• Lucite Hand Mirror