Secret Histories Reviews 156

TrustScore 5 out of 5

4.9

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Aurelia of Secret Histories presents unique jewelry items primarily of Australian origin which are described and photographed creatively with engaging historical context. The best part of jewelry is t... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I recently bought 2 beautiful rings from Aurelia, one for my daughter and one for myself. The rings are stunning and we loved them. Aurelia was amazing, getting them resized and sent off as quickly as... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Fabulous ring, amazing service, genuinely lovely lady to deal with. Aurelia was so patient when it took half a dozen attempts to pay with PayPal/credit cards/bank cards - anyone else would have given... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Aurelia is always an absolute pleasure. Her jewels, service and happy little self are always just perfection!! Buying off her is just so easy, everything is always just as described, packaged beautifu... See more

Company details

  1. Jewelry Store
  2. Art & Antiques

Written by the company

Carefully Curated Antique and Vintage Treasures for the Discerning Eclectic. A one woman micro business based in Adelaide, Australia. I bring you exquisite jewellery and objects of interest from times past. Specialising in Australian antique jewellery, but with an appreciation for high quality jewels from all over the world made during the 18th through 20th Centuries. Each item offered for your consideration is presented with detailed photographs and a thorough written description. All items are guaranteed to be as described. Shipping is always complimentary and change of mind returns are accepted. Your satisfaction is of utmost importance.


Contact info

4.9

Excellent

TrustScore 5 out of 5

156 reviews

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Beautiful items

Beautiful items, beautifully packaged. Always something interesting to find here. Secret Histories has charming products. Great communication and delivery!

October 21, 2024
Rated 1 out of 5 stars

Antique cameo bracelet

I was very hesitant about purchasing an antique cameo bracelet due to its age and purchasing from an online seller. However, I was assured by Aurelia that she only sold jewellery that was in wearable condition. She then offered to have the bracelet checked by a jeweller so that I could feel confident in my purchase. I was then informed that I could wear it with care, as you would with any antique jewellery. I have quite a few antique bracelets and have never had a problem, so I proceeded with the purchase. I wore my bracelet once - did nothing other than have coffee with a friend and window shop (I was out for an hour) - and upon arriving home discovered one of the cameos was missing. I contacted Aurelia who informed me that she could not accept a return and did not offer a solution, She informed me that buying old jewellery comes with risks. I have taken the bracelet to a highly reputable antique dealer who has asked her jeweller to see what can be done to repair it, only to find that at least 3 other cameos are not secure and I was lucky they had not fallen out. The cost to repair is almost $400. The bracelet was not sold to me in wearable condition and I am deeply upset. My mother has recently passed and I bought the bracelet to wear in memory of her.

That being said, the bracelet was beautifully packaged and until I had an issue, Aurelia was lovely to deal with. It is a shame that I have had this experience as she has some lovely pieces. Unfortunately, I cannot buy with confidence from this store.

Update. It was made clear that the bracelet was my responsibility, which is why it is now with the jeweller. You made this perfectly clear so I am unsure of what the point of contacting you again would have been. I did not ‘rebuff’ any offer, I simply did not contact you again. You made it evident that you did not believe you were accountable and that I was responsible. I am perfectly capable of finding a trustworthy master jeweller - I did not need your help to find one given we live in different states. He was able to quickly identify that a number of settings were compromised due to them being so worn and not secure. I am unsure how you believe this could happen within 3 weeks.

The issue that I have is that the bracelet was not sold in wearable condition, as promised. I know that I should not have worn it without having it first checked by my own jeweller. The wear around the cameos could not have possibly been caused by me after wearing it one time. Nor could it have been caused by transportation, humidity, or other factors you have suggested. The wear has happened over time, well before I had purchased it. As mentioned, I have quite a few pieces of antique jewellery. All have signs of wear but are in good condition. If I had known the settings were so worn that it was not in wearable condition, then I would not have purchased it.

My previous review stated that the bracelet is beautiful (it still is), the transaction was smooth, and the item beautifully packaged. You were highly responsive to my questions. I felt very confident in purchasing online from you. It is unfortunate that the bracelet needed repairing and was sold in a very worn condition. I should have had it checked immediately and have asked for your jeweller’s condition report. Lesson learnt. I am sure that you have had many happy customers but I am disappointed.

Thank you for updating your comment with condolences for my mother. Clearly I was not ‘enjoying’ my purchase for 3 weeks under those circumstances 🙄

November 9, 2024
Unprompted review
Secret Histories logo

Reply from Secret Histories

Dear Hayley,
My condolences on the loss of your mother. I can’t begin to imagine your grief in losing her, you have my most sincere sympathies in what must be a very difficult time.

I am most disappointed that you have chosen to leave a bad review rather than continue our conversation to work toward a mutually agreeable solution. I know from experience how distressing it is to lose a stone from a much loved item of jewellery, it happens to the best of us. I understand that you are upset that I could not agree to accept a return of an item well outside of my returns window, especially as it had been damaged. Initially you were thrilled with your purchase and left me a glowing 5 star review after enjoying your antique bracelet for 3 weeks.

As you mentioned in your current, edited review, at your request I had the settings re-checked by the master jeweller & antiques specialist I work with, who confirmed that all the cameos were secure in their settings prior to your purchase. I am confident in his assessment, but I also acknowledge that there are a number of factors outside of my control that could have caused this to change since leaving my possession (eg: vibrations during transit, rapid changes in temperature and humidity, exposure to water, etc) It is no secret that the treasures I sell are without warranty due to their age. You will find this policy outlined in the FAQ page on my website.

You rebuffed my offer of assistance in finding a qualified and reputable jeweller to restore your beautiful bracelet, and let me know that you had already entrusted the bracelet to a third party - before even waiting for a reply to your return request, (my reply to which was sent first thing on the following business day)! I’m not sure what you thought I could do at that point? My impression was that you were determined to be upset with me.

I will always do my very best for my customers and for the treasures they welcome into their collections, but you simply did not give me the opportunity to work with you to find solution. You may note that out of well over 100 reviews, many from loyal repeat customers, yours is the only review of less than 5 stars. I take enormous pride and care in the service I offer, and I believe it shows in the glowing reviews I have received over the years.

The relationship between a dealer and collector is one of mutual trust and respect. It appears that we are ill suited in this regard. I wish you all the very best in your collecting journey, regrettably I will no longer be able to assist.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

One of many treasures

I have been fortunate enough to secure some fabulous treasures from Aurelia and this is no exception. She has a keen eye, an artist’s sensibility and is a pleasure to interact with. I am sure this will not be my last purchase and I look forward to the next opportunity. Purchase without hesitation and enjoy!

October 7, 2024
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Aquamarine and white gold ring

I bought a beautiful Aquamarine and white gold ring. Aurelia was absolutely fantastic to deal with. She was super helpful and accomodating and very knowledgable. I will definitely buy from her again.

August 13, 2024
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A most romantic ring and a great experience

Was able to purchase the most beautiful ring after receiving a lot of support when I asked questions. I felt comfortable, and believe I paid a fair price. The ring arrived quickly in the US and it was insured and packaged well. Communication was excellent from the time I reached out until after receiving my ring. A perfect experience all around.

June 1, 2024
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Value and Beauty

I have purchased many incredible pieces from Secret Histories. Aurelia is wonderful to work with, her photos are lovely and detailed, really show the jewelry well. Communication has always been great and all items are shipped quickly. The packages are secure, well packed, and so pretty inside (even before you see the jewelry!). I highly recommend Secret Histories for value, courtesy, and prompt service.

May 20, 2024
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Inceredible Experience

I have bought from Aurelia a couple of times and every experience has been a delight.
Recently I bought a pair of the most beautiful amethyst earrings, they really are the prettiest things my ears have ever held in them - I've received so many compliments already!
I am happy beyond words and I will most definitely be buying from Aurelia again xx

December 28, 2023
Unprompted review
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A beautiful ring from a beautiful person!

A beautiful ring from a beautiful person!
Couldn't have had a better experience and I am in love with my new (old) ring... it came beautifully wrapped and is just as described. I'm already saving my pennies for the next purchase.

December 13, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Perfect experience

Excellent service, beautiful item and gorgeous packaging. Couldn’t ask for anything to be done differently.

December 11, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I had a wonderful experience

I had a wonderful experience! Amazing unicorn band is more beautiful in person and it arrived wrapped with such love and care. I will treasure it for years to come. Aurelia is so sweet and personable. I look forward to adding more items to my collection in the future, thank you!

October 16, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Beautiful treasures

I absolutely love the ring and the cute little stick pin that I bought from Aurelia. They are even more beautiful in real life. Her descriptions of the products are so detailed and are wonderful little stories to have that go with the jewellery. Excellent service and beautiful packaging. I will definitely buy from Aurelia again.

October 16, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Fabulous ring, fabulous experience

Fabulous ring, amazing service, genuinely lovely lady to deal with. Aurelia was so patient when it took half a dozen attempts to pay with PayPal/credit cards/bank cards - anyone else would have given up eons ago. Even with her being half-way around the world, she resized the ring and organised delivery so quickly and efficiently. Totally delighted with the ring, it is stunning. Can't recommend her highly enough.

September 4, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Aurelia is always an absolute pleasure

Aurelia is always an absolute pleasure. Her jewels, service and happy little self are always just perfection!! Buying off her is just so easy, everything is always just as described, packaged beautifully and posted quickly. I'll be back for more, there is no doubt!

July 16, 2023
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Beautiful ring

Beautiful ring - as described. Fast shipping. Aurelia is so lovely to deal with - a trusted & knowledgeable seller who sources & offers really special antique & vintage jewellery pieces.

July 9, 2023

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