If you enjoy visiting antique sales, you are aware that the excitement of the quest resides in unearthing priceless items, rare collectibles, and exciting treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, finding valuable goods requires a keen eye and some understanding of authenticity and historical worth. To assist you in finding those hidden treasures and getting the most out of your antique shopping experience, we’ll provide you with four critical pointers in this blog post.
Check the Furniture Hardware
Hardware is a crucial element to consider while inspecting antique furniture. Hardware, such as drawer pulls, hinges, and locks, is frequently elaborate and finely made on high-quality antiques. To verify their state and legitimacy, thoroughly examine their components. Look for wear and patina, which are indicators of age and use. Genuine hardware is typically made of sturdy materials like brass or iron, but contemporary replicas could be made of less expensive materials. You can learn more about the history, craftsmanship, and potential value of a piece of furniture by looking at the hardware.
Review Frames
In antique sales, artwork and mirrors are frequently discovered gems, and the frames that surround them can reveal important details about their provenance and caliber. Check the edges carefully for evidence of damage, changes, or repairs. Genuine antique frames could include gilding loss, cracks, or other age-related flaws that add to their charm and worth. Look for detailed carvings, distinctive motifs, and craftsmanship that is appropriate for the time the object is thought to have been made. Search the back of the frame for labels, inscriptions, or signatures that could reveal more about the maker or artist.
Determine if It’s Genuine Silver
Collectors prize cutlery, tea sets, and other silver goods highly. Look for hallmarks or stamps that state the item contains silver to tell if it is made of real silver. “925” for sterling silver and various symbols designating the producer or place of origin are examples of common marks. Knowing more about these marks might help you determine the piece’s age and authenticity. Examining the item’s condition is also essential because tarnish and wear can lower its value. Consult a specialist or appraiser to receive a qualified evaluation if you have any doubts regarding the authenticity of a silver piece.
Aim for artist signatures
Finding an artist’s signature can dramatically raise the value of a piece of art. Check paintings, sculptures, and other works of art carefully for any autographs, initials, or monograms. Look for signatures on the front or back of the piece of art. To ensure the signature is genuine, look up the artist’s name and compare it to existing examples. A signed part might still be valuable to collectors even if the artist is not well known. Pay attention to tiny art pieces or lesser-known artists because they frequently include undiscovered jewels.
Jerry’s Antiques is aware of the excitement of discovering undiscovered gems at antique auctions. We can handpick a collection of delicate objects with historical worth for our customers thanks to our experience in estate sales, estate liquidations, and house & estate cleanouts. Our store has a large selection of furniture, glass, china, art, silver, pottery, jewelry, and more, so stop by if you’re in Montclair, New Jersey. Our specialist staff is always available to help you search for hidden wealth, offer guidance and appraisals, and discounts on rare and genuine artifacts, curiosities, and artifacts.
