By Katrina Doran.

Many of will be familiar with the McAfee name for security and anti-virus software but the word about McAfee Auctions vintage jewellery sale this Friday 26th is spreading faster than an online virus through the 'in the know' fashion circles in Northern Ireland. 

Vintage is the word on every fashionista's lips at the moment when it comes to clothing and jewellery.

So lovers of unique, quality jewellery will be quivering with excitement when they hear that McAfee Auctions in Ballymoney has a vintage jewellery bonanza coming up for auction on June 26 at 7pm offering some stunning pieces reflecting the styles and fashions stretching right back to the Victorian era.

Vintage jewellery has not only become a style statement flaunted by celebrities and top models, but also a social comment in turbulent financial times when bling is no longer king.

It has a timeless quality which means it is often seen as an indulgent little investment piece with the potential to become an heirloom of the future.

Always a conversation starter, vintage jewellery exudes the old-world glamour of Hollywood associated with style icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.

It is the perfect gift for brides-to-be looking for something old to go with the new, borrowed and blue on their big day as it conveys the romance of history and longevity of experience.

In practical terms it is also much sought after because of the quality of craftsmanship, individuality of designs and the beauty of the metals, semi-precious and precious stones used to create the pieces.

But sourcing good vintage jewellery can be difficult because unless you have an expert eye it would be easy to pick up a cheap, modern reproduction rather than a quality item.

Gerry McAfee, auctioneer at McAfee Auctions said: "We selected some beautiful vintage pieces from the turn of the century right through to the 1970s, including some costume pieces, but also some very fine diamond and sapphire jewellery.

"Because of the range on offer we have something to suit every taste and budget and I would encourage everyone to come along just to take a look as there are some unique and exquisite pieces at really reasonable prices. Because of the nature of an auction you could easily pick up a quality piece for less than you would pay for modern costume jewellery.

"We have every possible gemstone imaginable in the sale there are garnets, pearls, zirconia, onyx, smoky quartz all in a dizzying array of settings. We have bracelets, necklaces, rings, brooches, lockets, charms, earrings, watches, pendants, bangles - I could go on - which exude the class and sophistication of the era from which they came."

The sale has other interesting lots which should attract some interest from men. There are war medals, hip flasks, bottle openers and gold sovereigns.

A full catalogue of items can be downloaded at www.mcafeepropertiesandmortgages.com or you can call McAfee Auctions on 028 27 667 669 to receive a full catalogue by post.

Special preview days are on June 23 and 24 from 3pm to 5pm and 7pm to 8.30pm and on the day of sale from 4pm. The sale itself begins at 7pm on Friday June 26.