Tips for spotting fake antiques

With the advancements in technology today reproducing fake antiques is becoming easier and easier, for the newcomer to the antique world this can be a nightmare, for the expert they too can sometimes be conned as the reproductions so closely resemble the real thing. However if you are a collector who is in the business in order of making a profit then being able to spot the fakes is essential, here are some tips when it comes to helping you make the decision.

When thinking of buying any pieces it is essential that you only go with a reputable dealer this is especially so if you are into antique furniture. Furniture is one of the easiest forms to replicate with today’s technology and you should make yourself aware of what to look for in specific furniture periods as all are classified by certain characteristics.

It is essential that you go to as many auction houses as you possibly can to get a feel of the pieces and to ensure that you know what to look for. The best place besides auction houses to get a feel of antiques is a museum; a museum will have the very best in antiques and are an excellent guide to the style of that period.

You should also be very aware of any furniture that seems too good to be true, if the furniture is very low priced then it could mean that this is reproduction furniture. On the other hand however it could mean that the seller simply doesn’t realise the true value of the piece and you could grab yourself a true bargain.

On the other hand don’t always take the cost of an item to heart, some people of course want to project the credibility of an item and this will be reflected in the price, if the seller is to get you to believe that the reproduction is in fact an antique then they will charge a huge price for the item. However it is when the seller starts to reduce the price dramatically once they have caught your interest that you should be aware of as by this time you couldn’t care less.

Another big con is that the seller will tell you that the antiques come from a little old lady who has cared lovingly for the pieces and they are of high value. Setting homes up as auctions in homes and putting an act on is not unknown and this is where the biggest rip offs occur as the reproductions look very authentic in surroundings such as this. It is always essential that you know what to look for and that you inspect any item thoroughly, also be very cautious if the seller refuses to let you handle the items or to inspect them very carefully.

If the item is furniture and you are buying it from the home then of course if it has been in use there could be marks, stains or chips simply from use. Always take these into account and the price should be haggled over to accommodate for any markings, this doesn’t mean that the antiques are reproduction but merely that they have had wear and tear.