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About Pot of Gold

Our Service Pledge To You:
We respond to all orders within 24 hours, barring computer or satellite malfunctions. If you do not hear, please give us a call.

About Us
We want everyone to love what they purchase from us; so if you ever receive an item you are not happy with, please email or call for a cheerful, full refund. We pride ourselves on keeping our customers happy and returning to shop again and again. ****Also if you purchase a piece of jewelry from my shop and it later loses a stone, pin back, earring back or becomes damaged in any way I will repair it for you at a $25 charge which will include the return shipping, provided I have or can find the needed stone(s), clasp, pin back, etc. and you have the patience to wait for me to do it on my own schedule; so when you buy be sure to bookmark my shop to be able to find me later if needed.**** We must keep these beautiful pieces wearable and in circulation because this level of beauty and craftsmanship will never be produced again.

NOTE: The only repairs I will do is for my customers on pieces they have purchased from me.


WE SPECIALIZE IN ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE JEWELRY OF ALL TYPES, ESPECIALLY UNUSUAL AND RARE!


I sort of fell backwards into my love affair with ï¾"incredible wearable works of artï¾" in the form of vintage costume jewelry.

As an occupational therapist and single mom doing traveling therapy I wanted something fun to do in my leisure time in new places; so I offered to start collections for my two college age daughters, Christi and Tonya, but it had to be something very small and portable as I took job assignments all over the US and carried my entire household from place to place in my van. Christi wanted salt & pepper shakers and Tonya wanted vintage jewelry.

I left from Sarasota, FL for my first travel assignment in Spokane, WA. In Twin Falls, ID on the way there I purchased someoneï¾'s entire lifetime collection of S & Pï¾'s at a Desert Industries Store. It was between 400-500 pairs; so we maxed out in S & Pï¾'s in one stop. When Christi saw the beautiful and unusual jewelry pieces I brought back for her sister she decided she would rather have jewelry too. Luckily they have very different taste and rarely wanted the same pieces.

When I found my first ï¾"treasureï¾" of an unmarked 14K ring with a very large six point black star sapphire stone for $30 - - - I was hooked and have been ï¾"Junkin for Treasuresï¾" ever since. That was 20+ years ago. By the way Tonya still has the ring.

When I would go to auctions, garage/estate sales I would often buy large lots of jewelry to get several pieces for their collections. Sometimes I would sell to dealers from this excess to help support my hunting habit.

After five years I had to stop doing traveling therapy to care for my aging parents and this large stash of extra jewelry helped, my then pregnant, Christi to open an antique mall booth and sell on eBay; so that she could be a stay-at-home mom.

I would find treasures that had missing stones, pin backs, earring backs, etc. and wanted to save them from the salvage or craft piles. I started harvesting stones from pieces that were beyond salvage, then someone had some vials of vintage stones I bought, next I met someone who told me about Paulï¾'s Unique and Stella Yellin and Stella taught me all about grading and care of vintage rhinestones. That is how I started accumulating the knowledge; and the hundreds of thousands of stones and vintage findings I have for restoration.

I was a charter member of Vintage Fashion and Costume Jewelry (VFCJ) Collectors' Club and at the first convention I attended another jewelry rescuer introduced me to Wolf E. Myrow, Inc. in Providence, RI. My greatest joy though was finding Waliga Imports & Sales, Inc. and Bill Waliga. His passion for these wonderful pieces rivaled my own and we became great friends. I was greatly saddened by Billï¾'s passing the summer of 2007. I will miss him terribly and all the history he had to share about the jewelry trade in the Providence, RI area. I am hopeful that the Waliga family will continue the business and I can look forward to many more years of digging around in their warehouse for vintage stones and findings.

At the 2005 VFCJ Convention I presented a workshop on the Care and Restoration of Antique and Vintage Jewelry.
At the jewelry sale that year Peter M. Dicristofaro, Curator of the Jewelry Museum in Providence came by my table and stated, ï¾"You have the most eclectic selection and reasonable prices of all the vendors here and a number of pieces I wish to purchaseï¾".

I remarried in 2003 to a wonderful man I found with the help of the internet who encourages my passion for finding and rescuing vintage costume jewelry.

Within the first year of our marriage we were both diagnosed with cancer.

After our treatments and getting a clean bill of health from our oncologists we purchased a motor home, he retired and I was forced to retire from occupational therapy; so we sold all property and now live full time in our home on wheels. In the past five years we have visited 37 states in the USA, spent 4 months touring Alaska (our logo picture was taken at Denali National Park in Alaska) and visited six Canadian Provinces. We also spent the month of December 2006 in Belize.

We have traveled extensively for the past five years and have now decided to start working 6 months out of the year. We are no longer going to be collecting for our three daughters and instead opened this shop on Ruby Lane as a venue for selling the treasures we find while continuing to travel this great country of ours. We will still give some of the most awesome pieces we find to our four beautiful grandchildren to start collections and instill a love of these beautiful wearable art creations in yet another generation.

I have bought and sold on eBay off and on since May of 1998 and have a 100% Positive Feedback rating under the ID-arlyp.

Customer Testimonials:
09-25-11
Hi Arlene-
Oh I am sorry It (Dramatic Woven Mesh with Unusual Bow Clasp Bracelet) did arrive and it is great!
Ginger

08-26-11
Hi, the item arrived safely (Vintage Striking Olivine Green Stones Demi) and is just lovely. Thank you, Pat
P.S. Looks exactly like Beau Jewels (which is underrated imho).

12-02-10
Hi! The two beautiful brooches were received. (Celluloid Pink Elephant Caricature Brooch and Victorian Micro Mosaic Brooch).
Thank you very much!
Yvonne

11-29-10
I just wanted to thank you, I received my pendant and it is
beautiful. (Victorian Micro Mosaic Pendant Necklace).

11-22-10
Hello,
(Napier Designer Signed Demi of Pink Art Glass Elephant Charms)
Arrived safe and sound. Been waiting for one of these sets for
quite a while! Thanks so much.
Gail

11-18-10
Hi Arlene,
I received the Mazer jewelry. Lovely! (Mazer Sterling Designer Signed Demi Parure).
Keep me in mind if you come across any more Mazer or Mazer Bros. Jewelry.
Thanks so much,
JOY

11-13-10
Hello Arlene,
I have received the brooch (Austrian Fruits Designer Signed Grapes Brooch)
So lovely and in excellent condition.
I appreciate your prompt service.
Thanks a lot, Miho (Japan)

11-10-10
I JUST LOVE THIS BEAUTIFUL PIN. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
( Elzac Designer Josephine Baker Victims of Fashion Brooch) Angelica

10-18-10
Received my lovely brooch! (Schreiner Whimsical Snail Brooch)
Thanks Hana

10-14-10
Dear Arlene,
I received my lovely bracelet this morning. VERY pleased with it and
there will be many visits to your shop.
Many thanks again,
Deanna ....... Keep Well

07-12-10
Hi Arlene,
The bracelet (Vintage Signed Mexican Sterling Wrap Hinged Bangle) has arrived and it is spectacular. Such a great design. Good luck with your sales and hope to do business with you again.
Take care, Kay

06-28-10
Hi Arlene,
Yes, indeed I did receive it (Victorian Gold Filled Locket on Original Mesh Chain Circa 1860-80) and it is more beautiful than could be displayed over the net!! .
Blessings to you and your family,
Jodi

06-04-10
Hi again!
I got my beautiful locket in the mail this morning. It looks even
better seeing it in person! Thanks again so much.
Leslie Hughson

06-02-10

Dear Arlene,
Just to let you know that the fantastic fur clips(Crown Trifari Designer Signed Enameled Bird & Eisenberg Sterling Designer Signed Fur Clips) have arrived safely and in best condition at my address.
Really love them - brilliant pieces of fine costume jewelry.
Thanks again for your perfect and professional support!
With kind regards, Christian (Germany)

05-28-10
Thank you Arlene. The brooch (Lea Stein Designer Signed Penguin Brooch) arrived safely and is indeed gorgeous!
Best
Shari

05-24-10
Dear Arlene,
Today I received the necklace and I love it - it's just beautiful. I know mum will love it too and will probably 'borrow' it on occasion when she goes out (to the elderly citizen's dances).
Thank you very much and Best of Wishes to you!
Regards, Pamela

03-18-10
Hi, I just wanted to let you know I received the Hattie Carnegie Christmas tree pin. I
think it is lovely and it will make a wonderful addition to my
Christmas tree collection. It has been a pleasure doing business
with you. Thank you much, Eunice

03-16-10
Dear Arlene,
I received the ABSOLUTELY PERFECT bracelet yesterday - thank you so much!
I immediately put it next to the earrings and necklace and the match is
not just good - it is perfect! I so love to complete sets!
Again, thank you for another wonderful piece of jewelry! Cynthia

03-09-10
Hi Arlene,
It (Deco Rhodium Filigree Hinged Bangle Bracelet) is absolutely beautiful! I look forward to shopping with you again.
Sincerely, ImaJean

03-08-10
Dear Arlene,
I've received the necklace today. It is more beautiful than I
expected! Thank you so much. I really appreciate your attention.
Regards, Kumiko Mori

03-06-10
Hi, Arlene........the earrings arrived today and they are very pretty...thank you very much...
Sincerely.. Mary

03-05-10
hi arlene, just letting you know the demi arrived. it's so neat that the original box went with it. i just love everything i order from you. it never disappoints and your treasures are so unique and reasonable to boot! have a terrific weekend and hope to come back again soon. warmest regards, cynthia

03-04-10
The lovely necklace arrived and thank you so much! As always I am
delighted to have done business with you and couldn't be more pleased!
Cynthia

02-21-10
The nine "jools" arrived yesterday, and I love
each of them! Thanks so much for these treasures I'll add to my
collection! Cynthia

02-19-10
Just letting you know that I received my Eisenberg Original Sterling Designer Signed Brooch yesterday and it's simply dazzling!!. Thank you so much.
Connie Self

02-13-10
Dear Arlene,
I have to tell you, I absolutely love the piece (Victorian Snake Wrap Bracelet of Rose Cut Garnets)! I believe it is one of the most charming, most lovely pieces I have ever seen! I am honored to own such a lovely piece, and it will aways have a loving home and the best
of care! I can't wait to show it off!
I will definitely be back to visit your shop; probably just to browse
for awhile until I can afford to treat myself to another lovely piece!
Thanks again, Cynthia

02-03-10
Hi Arlene!!
The fantastic brooch arrived safe and sound!!
Thanks for everything and I wish you a fabulous 2010,
All the best, Klelia

12-31-09
I received the Japanese Lantern brooch about 2 days ago. It is a
charming piece; well made and "sturdy." I am delighted with not
only the pin, but your service as well! Thank you, Karen

12-24-09
Hi, Arlene~ It just arrived! The necklace (Deco Sterling and Glass Stones Festoon Necklace) is absolutely beautiful! Thanks very much and hope you have a wonderful
holiday. Kind regards, Laurie

12-22-09
Dear Arlene,
I received the package today and they're beautiful (Georgian French Cut Steel Belt Buckle and Shoe Decorations Set). Thanks! Michele

12-21-09
Dear Arlene,
Just a note to let you know that your package arrived today. The pieces ( BOUCHER Designer Signed RARE Demi of Brooch and Earrings) are beautiful and my husband thanks you for saving his bacon! Colette

12-15-09
The brooch arrived in perfect condition and is beautiful ! Thanks.
Ron Blanchard

12-14-09
Hi Arlene, just wanted to let you know that gorgeous set arrived
today, thank you so very much, it's really lovely.
Kerrie

12-12-09
Dear Arlene,
Just a quick note to let you know that the gold etruscan bangle
arrived safely on my doorstep this morning.
I love it - but if I put on any weight it will not fit. They
certainly were very petite in those days!
Thank you once again for your efficient service.
Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year,
Regards, Rosemary

12-08-09
Arlene,
The hat pin arrived in great shape.
I have a 14-year-old daughter who has fallen in love with a character (Alice Henderson) played by Tyne Daly in the old TV series "Christy" who always uses very classy but simple hat pins. I've not been able to find any exactly like them, but yours was the closest and I am so excited to give this to my daughter for Christmas. I think she will love it and it will be such a unique, unexpected gift.
Thanks for shipping it so promptly.
Merry Christmas, Lauri Glauser

12-07-09
HI,
I JUST RECIEVED THE GARNET NECKLACE TODAY AND GAVE IT TO MY DAUGHTER
FOR HER BIRTHDAY. IT LOOKS FABULOUS AND SHE LOVES IT. WHAT A GREAT
PIECE. THANKS SO MUCH.
SUSANNE HOAGLAND

11-18-09
Hello Arlene,
You will never guess what showed up in my mail box today!! I
love the necklace it is so pretty!! I absolutely love it!! The
package had a notice from the post office that said, "sorry,
package was found in supposedly empty equipment".
I want to thank you for your concern and kind offers of
replacement or refund. I was hoping the package would show up
eventually. It would have been a shame to have something that has
lasted through so many years get lost forever in the mail!!
Sincerely, Maria

10-20-09
Hi Arlene,
The buckle has arrived safe and sound and so quickly.. thank you, I love it,
its gorgeous and a great addition to my collection, thank you for the
wonderful purchase, wish there was someway I could place nice feedback on
ruby lane for you...hope to meet again online sometime,
:) best, Wendy

11-04-09
Hello Arlene! My beautiful pearls have arrived safely. I could not be more pleased. Thank you so very much! I will visit your shoppe often. Scott Y. Rullan

10-09-09
Hi Arlene,
I'm finally home! The ring had arrived safely, its a beauty and
isn't too loose, I can wear it on my biggest finger!
Thanks again for all your help, it's much appreciated
Jai

09-28-09
Hi Arlene,
The brooch arrived safely today, and it is gorgeous! I love the brooch, and am delighted to have found one in such exceptional condition. As you know, many of these older pieces look as if they fought WWII. Should you come across any more Reinad pieces, or other Art Deco style pins (or bracelets) in good condition, please keep me in mind and let me know. I will browse your store today, too.
Regards, Martha :)

09-25-09
Hi Arlene,
I thought my message went to you but maybe it failed to send. I did receive the brooch, it is very lovely. It arrived safely and well wrapped. Thank you for checking back with me, that's a sign of excellent customer service.
Sincerely, Becky Johnson

09-13-09
Hi there! I wanted to let you know that I received the necklace yesterday and it is absolutely stunning! Although your photos were clear, they did not do it any justice! I am so happy I decided to splurge and purchase it!
All the best, jen.

09-10-09
(Sterling Chatelaine Needle Case) Arrived safely today - even prettier in person! Thank you for all of your help!//Kandie

08-14-09
Thanks, Arlene ~ it safely arrived and it is absolutely spectacular! (Margot de Taxco Enamel on Sterling Necklace) Have a great weekend!
Best ~ Shannon

07-21-09
Thank you Arlene . The bracelet is lovely and the transaction was so easy. I appreciate it. Thanks, Karen

07-15-09
Hi Arlene,
I received your package today and the brooch is just as pretty as can be. Thank you so much, I love it. :)
Cute bag too! Nice purchase, I'll be back!
Jackie

07-14-09
Arlene,
I received the brooch and it was just as beautiful as I anticipated.
Thank you. Angel

07-09-09
Hello Arlene, I received my lovely 20's Rhodium Filigree
Bracelet today...I just love it - thank you :-) Hope to do
business again. Kind Regards, Gwen Miclea

06-28-09
Hi Arlene,
Just letting you know the beautiful pin arrived safe and sound. It is always a pleasure doing business with you. I look forward to doing more business together in the future. Have a great week.
Warmest regards, Cynthia

06-21-09
Hi Arlene,
I received my necklace. I love it so much! Thank you very much!!
Regards, Denise

06-06-09
Just to let you know that I received your package today with the Victorian-inspired ring. What a terrific piece! I know it will be one of my very favorites. It has a ton of grace!!
Sandra

06-03-09
Hi Arlene, I wasnï¾'t expecting the necklace to arrive so fast! Iï¾'m absolutely thrilled with it, itï¾'s really lovely, thank you. I shall certainly keep my eye on your shop.
Very best wishes, Heather

05-15-09
Hi, Arlene--
My Victorian agate bracelet arrived safely. It's even lovelier than I expected! And what looked in the photos like a crack in one of the links turns out to be a natural color streak. So I'm really pleased.
Thank you! Best, Polly

05-08-09
Dear Arlene:
I received my deco crystal necklace on Wednesday. This necklace is so beautiful. I can't believe how the crystals reflect the light. When I wore the necklace, I received many compliments. It is a show stopper!
Thanks, Arlene Lauer

03-27-09
Hi Arlene, The brooch arrived in the mail today.
She is gorgeous; stunning with the intensity and sparkle of the wine red tones. The design is exquisite. What a pleasant surprise! I'm delighted with its excellent condition.
I favor this vintage brooch over diamond glitter; it has warmth and soul. Thank you for great packaging.
Have a nice weekend, Erna

03-25-09
Hello Arlene! I received the bracelet today and it is wonderful! I LOVE IT!
Thank you so much, Brooke

Hi Arlene - 03-15-09
Just to let you know that I received the lovely ivory necklace
and am very pleased with it. Best regards, Janet

Greetings Arlene ~ The brooch is GORGEOUS!! Thank you for your fast shipping and a GREAT transaction:))
Kindest Regards, Jenny

Hi Arlene, WOW, WOW that stunning set arrived today!!! I just LOVE it. Thank you so very much. I can't believe how fast the post was LOL. I'll drop by often to browse your lovely shop. Kerrie

Hi Arlene, I received my Mourning Brooch today...I LOVE IT !! How do I post positive feedback for you? Best Regards, Linda

"Exquisite Margot de Taxco set~exactly as described~quick ship~thanks so much!" Tranquil Harbor Sales

"Beautiful Ming Set. Excellent communication. Super fast shipping. Packed well. Perfect transaction!" Harilyn