5 Tips for Identifying Authentic Antique products

Definition of Antique Needs to be Understand

Prior to taking a deep dive into the identification of authentic antique products, first of all, you need to be aware of the basic qualities of an antique products. Items that are much older or approximately 100 years deep-rooted product, then it could be characterized as an antique product. Based on different contexts, this rule could be varied, as in many cases only 50 years old product is also termed as vintage. However, the baseline of the products needs to be fundamental. If you are passionate about antique product collection, you have to be familiar with the different characteristics of antique products and this will effectively help you to assess your potential antique product purchases.

Craftmanship Examination

Genuine antique products are generally the fruit of perfect craftsmanship and it is very critical replicate even after the advancement of technology. Some core elements of antique products are as follows:

• Material Quality: Authentic antique products are generally made out of high-quality material. Anyhow, if you find that your antique product is flimsy or lightweight, it will never be an authentic product.
• Joinery Techniques: First of all, the structure of the antique products needs to be scrutinized properly. In the context of antique furniture, they used traditional joining strategy like tenon, mortise, or dovetail joints. In this type of furniture if you observed that there are modern nails or screws attached to any modern furniture, it will be sign of reproduction.
• Patina and Finishes: Surface of an antique products needs to have the sign of anciency, for example: minor wear or natural patina. If you observed that there was a pristine finish on an antique product, then it could be the sign of restored product rather than antique product. Any genuine antique product has the aged and rich finish, which completely enhance the characteristics of the vintage product.

Checking any Labels and Marks

Some specific labels, marks, as well as signatures authenticate many antique products and some specific characteristics need to be considered here.

• Labels and Tags: The origin of any antique products has indicated by its original tags and labels. To mislead buyers, many reproducers use fake labels and that is why proper authentication is required.
• Style Periods: You have to research to familiarize yourself with different styles and periods product. This complete knowledge will help you to recognize originality of any antique products.
• Makers Mark: Particularly for antique furniture or pottery, maker’s marks is an indication of authentication. Enhance your knowledge with online databases, books and collector groups that helps you to know more about period or region of maker’s mark. Antiques are often identified by makers marks or the actual artisan who created it themselves. 

Historical Investigation

It is significantly impactful in understanding the history of the authenticity of the antique product. Some steps that need to be investigates are as follows:

• Asking Question: When you are purchasing the antique products from seller or any dealer, then you should not forget to ask questions about the history of the item. Any authentic seller will always answer you about the details including previous ownership, restoration history and age of the piece.
• Auction Record Research: Many renowned auction houses maintain proper record of previous antique product sales, including description and photos of the item. The market authenticity and value could be easily gained after reviewing the research records.
• Provenance Documentation: Any authentic antique product always has proper documentation, including certificates, previous appraisals or even personal stories. These documentations are passed down from generation to generation which creates more credibility and value of the item.

Seeking for Expert Opinion

In the domain of antique products, you should not hesitate to consult experts and professionals in case of any doubt. Some approaches of gaining additional insight through expert opinion are as follows:

• Antique Dealers: if you are looking for expert opinion regarding your antique product, then dealers with good reputation could be invaluable resources. Generally, they have huge knowledge that allow them to provide proper guidance regarding authenticity of antique products.
• Antique exhibitions and shows: You can closely contact antique experts and collectors at any local exhibition and antique shows. You can get your every antique product-related query as well as get insight from those knowledgeable insights.
• Appraisers: If you want to appraise any of your antique items, hiring an appraiser is always a perfect idea. Detailed evaluation of the product is easily achieved and it can evaluate the value and authenticity of the product.

Identification of authentic antique products is too broad a question to usefully answer; there are simply too many categories of antiques. The simplistic answer is that a fake won’t look old when closely examined by a practiced eye. The world of antique products navigation can be both challenging and thrilling. With numerous forge and vague antique products flooding within the market, it is always necessary to understand how to recognize the genuine antique products, which is very crucial to know for any enthusiast or collector. After knowing the exact definition of antiques, checking marks and labels, examining craftsmanship, seeking expert opinions, and researching history can positively demonstrate individual’s antique collection that develops real value. With a bit of patience and knowledge, any antique product enthusiast can be capable to discover beautiful antique pieces that not just enrich your collection, but eventually help you to connect with the history.