Knowledge Required to Recognize Antiques

Antiques of any type, glass, bottles, toys or furniture takes a trained eye to recognize their value. Many counterfeits are being made everyday and most are made with acceptable quality. However, when someone attempts to sell one as being an original, unless you understand what to look for, you could be swindled.

For example, authentic blown glass bottles would have evidence of the pontil rod. Antiques, which were hand-blown, have a spot, usually on the bottom showing where the pontil rod was snapped off once the item cooled. Glass shaped in a mold will show lines along one side or an uneven lip where the mold was over or under filled.

Some antiques, like sewing machines, are wanted simply because of their style or their fit into a person’s decor. A working sewing machine will usually have a higher value but someone looking for one just for decoration; will not care whether it works.

For people just beginning to think about antiques it is best to go through a reputable antiques dealer. Buying antiques online is also ill advised because you do not have the opportunity to check for the finer details of the piece. Additionally, obtaining a copy of an antiques magazine or directory can help you spot the real thing.

For more information, visit http://www.weantique.com/

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