6 signs that you have a valuable antique

Are you looking for antique furniture for sale? It can be difficult to tell the difference between old pieces of furniture and valuable antiques. Antique furniture makes a stunning addition to the design of classical homes and owning these stunning pieces of furniture can also be a good investment.

antiques and collectables

Before you start visiting antique shops on the hunt for antiques and collectables you will need to know how to spot an item of value.

1. The Scarcity of the piece

Antique furniture that is hard to come by is more valuable than common items. While its scarcity can mean that it was an unpopular item, it can also mean that only a few items were manufactured for wealthy patrons.

These types of antiques can be a unique find because only a few items were made for those who could afford it. Another reason for a rare find could be that the antique is delicate so most of the items have been damaged or destroyed over the years. Furniture that has a distinctive design is also more valuable than commonly available items.

2. Attractive Design

Valuable items will have an aesthetically appealing design. While some may say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, there are some styles that appeal to a wider audience than others.

When you are out looking for antique furniture for sale, you should make sure that you like its design. Once you have chosen something that appeals to you, do some research to see if other people feel the same way.

antique furniture design

3. Current Trends

Current trends affect the value of your antique piece. Something that was not valuable years ago may have more value on the current market. This is due to the fact that the items which have a wider appeal are more sought after and can therefore fetch a higher price. If you are looking for valuable antiques and collectables it is advisable to review the current trends first.

4. Legitimacy of the piece

It’s important to double check the details of the antique furniture that the seller provides you with. Do some research to check that the seller has listed the correct date of production and the correct craftsman. It is important to check that the furniture is not a replica.

5. The Condition the Antiques are in

Find furniture for sale that is still in good condition to ensure the value of the piece. Over the years it is natural for furniture to show signs of wear and tear but quality items that are well looked after are more valuable than shabby furniture. Check if the furniture has been altered, because the closer it is to the original design, the more valuable it is.

Furniture that has been restored by a professional to its original condition is also a good buy. Before you buy your piece be sure to check for scratches, cracks and discolouration.

restored antique furniture piece

6. Craftsmanship

There are several ways to spot antiques from the craftsmanship of a piece of furniture. Dovetailing is a revealing sign which indicates whether the furniture is valuable or not. Dovetailing is used to keep the segments of the furniture together by quality craftsmen. Examine the sides of drawers and cabinets to see if dovetailing has been used. This means that the item is handmade which adds to its value.

Numerous layers of wood are a good sign. Typically antique furniture has more expensive wood on the outside layer and more affordable wood on the places that are less visible. If you are buying a chair, check whether the wood that is used underneath it is the same as the wood on top.

craftsmanship of antique furniture for sale

The same goes for the inside of drawers. Another tell-tale sign of a fake antique is when techniques have been used to make the furniture appear older than it really is. Shabby-chic looks aren’t a sign of authenticity. Rather look for signs of use in areas such as the drawers.

Now that you know what to look for when choosing antiques and collectibles, you can start looking for antique furniture for sale. Antique shops and online classifieds like Junk Mail are great places to start your hunt. Selling your antiques? Sell fast by placing your FREE AD on Junk Mail now!

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6 signs that you have a valuable antique
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6 signs that you have a valuable antique
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Before you start visiting antique shops on the hunt for antiques and collectables you will need to know how to spot an item of value.
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Junk Mail
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2 Responses

  1. Patricia says:

    Hi,
    Could you please inform me where I can find an antique dealer to price my chairs that I would like to sell

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