Antiquing Secrets

Significance

• Whether decorating your home or making a profit, antiques are purchased for many reasons. Antique fanatics range from the novice hobbyist to the avid collector. Understanding the secrets of antiquing helps the consumer when the time comes to make her purchase. Values can go up and down, depending on the trends. Participating in the research and due diligence are required; knowing the history of a piece or understanding its origin, helps the consumer in the long run when buying goods.

Spotting a Fake

• Watching out for fake antique pieces requires education and a keen eye. Look at the market for the piece in question and make comparisons. For example, if the item of interest is at an antiques fair, make sure other vendors are not carrying the same or similar product. When items are in high demand, copies appear everywhere for various prices. Always scrutinize the antique, making sure the wood matches, seams are not showing in fabric, or, if there are any shelves, that the wood is the same age on the inside as the outside.

Valuable Antiques

• Most antique enthusiasts care about the pieces in their possession and want to get the correct value. Once it's established the vendor is reputable, ask for documentation of the antique piece being considered for purchase. Most collectors and dealers are quite knowledgeable and will be able to explain the value of the piece even if there are no papers for proof of age.

Considerations

• Antiques can be pottery or clocks, jewelry or furniture. Knowing updated price listings and any descriptions will help arm the consumer with the information necessary for making an antique purchase. Antique guides such as "Kovels' Antiques Guide and Collectibles Price List" or "Warman's Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide" are updated annually and are available online or in local bookstores. Ask the dealer coordinating the purchase for business references for your own ease of mind.