One of the problems an antique collector first faces, when they start out collecting, is how to identify and avoid fakes.
Many antique dealers and experts in the field have been deceived by fakes, so it’s a common trap for beginners to fall in to. What seemingly looks to be a valuable antique, dating a few hundred years, could in fact be a reproduction item made only a week ago.
There are many methods employed by antique experts to determine whether or not an antique is genuine. These methods have evolved with technology improvements over the years.
There are many methods employed by antique experts to determine whether or not an antique is genuine. These methods have evolved with technology improvements over the years.
Carbon dating is one such tool that can be used to decipher the exact antiquity/age of a particular item.
Interestingly though, experts rely more often on their eyes and hands for authenticity verification.
Some believe that handling the item is the only proven method to identify a fake or reproduction item. This is a method that you too can use in checking for authenticity.
Some believe that handling the item is the only proven method to identify a fake or reproduction item. This is a method that you too can use in checking for authenticity.
Make sure you do the necessary homework on whatever antique piece you are after buying to find out as much about it as you can. When you find your object of desire, make sure you ask to handle and inspect the item, before purchasing it. If they refuse, do not buy!
If you visit a car boot or similar venue, and see traders selling identical items in quantity, take heed! It’s more than likely that they are selling fake or reproduction antiques, as it’s very rare to see more than two identical antique items, being sold alongside each other.
Also, remember the old adage “if it looks to good to be true then it probably is”. Bear this in mind when you see what at first glance appears to be a bargain, priced several hundred pounds below what you know it to be worth.
If you visit a car boot or similar venue, and see traders selling identical items in quantity, take heed! It’s more than likely that they are selling fake or reproduction antiques, as it’s very rare to see more than two identical antique items, being sold alongside each other.
Also, remember the old adage “if it looks to good to be true then it probably is”. Bear this in mind when you see what at first glance appears to be a bargain, priced several hundred pounds below what you know it to be worth.
Nobody gives anything away (knowingly) in the world of antiques, so in this case the item probably is a fake and at the least will require handling and close inspection.