Most collectors will encounter knock-off antiques at some point in their collecting career. Maybe it’s a convincing imitation at the flea market, an impostor at an unscrupulous antique dealer, or you simply hear that a friend of a friend has a priceless item on their hands only to find it’s IKEA furniture that their carpenter buddy tried to decorate and pass off.
At Judy’s Jewelry, they only buy and sell the real deal– priceless heirlooms from yesteryear that are indicative of the quality and taste of the time.
Here are some considerations when buying antique furniture that will save you loads of time and heartache.
Look for Signs of Aging
Just because that walnut end table is beat up doesn’t mean it came from the 17th century, but it doesn’t mean it isn’t authentic either.
Signs of wear and tear could indicate the item has had a long history, whereas certain items like bronze, copper, and even wool antiques will also develop a patina that changes its appearance.
Imitators may try to replicate a patina to pass it off, but a true patina adds some shine and it doesn’t flake off. If the patina you’re looking at flakes, it is likely a painted-on substitute.
Consider the Condition
Perhaps the years have not been kind to the furniture, and it is heavily damaged. This could, on the one hand, authenticate the item, but now it is in heavy disrepair and so it should not fetch the seller top dollar.
Make note of the damage. Regular wear and tear could be excused as just what happens over the years, but major imperfections, cracks, missing pieces, excessive chipping, and other defects will seriously diminish the value.
If you love the piece anyway, offer what you believe is fair, but we’d advise against paying the asking price if you believe the condition does not represent the amount.
Take Provenance into Account
A final consideration that will greatly aid you during your antique shopping travels is the provenance of the item. This one is a little trickier to nail down, unless you happen to be a walking encyclopedia.
Knowing the history of an item, where it came from, trademark style elements and materials used during the time, and more will help you verify in the moment that what you’re looking at is indeed, say, a 19th century chest of drawers rather than the woodworking of Earl down the street circa 2022.
Establishing rapport with a credible, well-versed antique dealer will help you in this department, as they are often very acquainted with the stylings of former centuries and can spot telltale signs of authenticity that others might miss.
Judy’s Jewelry
That’s where Judy’s Jewelry of Fort Myers comes in.
From antique furniture to estate jewelry, vintage glassware to historical artifacts, they have what you never knew you needed to round out your collection. Their years of experience have given them unique and invaluable insight into the world of antiques, and they’re ready to share that expertise with you today.
Stop by the store and see what we mean; you’ll be glad you did!
