It has happened to everyone at least once: You order a fabulous, *authentic* (orso you think) item online, just to find that after tearing into the packagewith anticipation, there is a little “Made in China” sticker staring youstraight in the face. Or maybe thestraps fall off of your “vintage” (and highly discounted) Chanel handbag a meretwo days after using it. The Internet is a giant playground for those lookingto profit by deceiving consumers and unfortunately, online isn’t the only placeto be wary of when purchasing items. Many people are sold “genuine” antiques and collectibles in retailstores everyday that are no more valuable than the packaging they leave thestore in. In tough economic timeslike these, everyone is out there trying to make a few extra bucks at the expenseof unwitting consumers – don’t let that consumer be you!
Here are a few tips to help you shop smart and avoid beingfooled:
* If the price seems too good to be true, itprobably is. This is one oldadage that has a lot of truth to it – especially when you are dealing with collectiblesor similar highly reproducible items. Although there are plenty of sales and discounts out there right now,chances are that the one of a kind piece that is selling for 75% below itsmarket value could be a fake. Askthe seller for accompanying documentation or inquire about his or herconnections. If he/she seemsuncomfortable with discussing this information, it could be a red flag.
* When you are dealing with antiques - especiallyantique furniture – check to make sure the entire piece is original. If object in question is a table,for example, be very detailed in your examination. Do the legs match the tabletop? Sometimes different parts are combined to make one piece offurniture or replace a damaged part.
* True vintage items will indicate at leastsome wear and tear. Of course,you could be trying to purchase an item that has gone untouched for years butmost likely, if the item is old, it has been handled, worn, or used in someform or fashion. If it is a chair,are the armrests and seat worn down slightly? Is the pain on that 20th century doll chipped orgone in places? No authenticantique item is going to look fresh even if it has been boxed away for half ofa century.
* If you are at an antique fair or festivaland you see the item more than once, it is probably a reproduction. This one is common sense but its goodto remember to keep an eye out for the item in question in different booths. Ten similar figurines or statues indifferent booths = one popular, unauthentic replica.
* How dirty istoo dirty? If the “antique” item is dirty all over, the seller could be trying torough it up to make it look authentic. Dust, dirt, and other particles commonly collect increvices, corners, and other hard to reach, hard to clean places rather thanall over.
* Bring along a friend when shopping. Us antique lovers and collectors canget very excited and emotional about finding the perfect item! It is very easy to get caught up in themoment and accept the seller’s word at face value because we want so badly forthe item to be authentic. It isalways good to have a second opinion on the item and have someone bring us backdown to earth in situations like these!
* Become an expert. If you are into depression-era glass orvintage teacups, do your research before. Become a mini-expert at your trade. There is an abundance of information out there on theworld-wide-web and even in books at your local library. The more you know about what you arepurchasing, the easier it will be to spot a fake.
* If you are considering purchasing anantique or collectible online, contact the seller and pay close attention tothe quality of the responses. Ask a lot of detailed questions that the seller should know about thatparticular item. Try to get themon the phone. Most sellers thatare trying to sell a fake will be more reluctant to speak on the phone andsubject themselves to a lot of detailed questions. Ask about what dealers/markets they purchase from and ifthey can provide documentation proving authenticity before the transaction. Put them on the hot seat and observe their reactions!
* Contact an appraiser with anyadditional question you may have about an item. They can be a great source of you are curious to know whatto look for when spotting a fake.
Check out iTaggit’sGallery to find fabulous antiques and collectibles!
Signup with iTaggit today to add your own collectionto the gallery and share it with friends and family in one click!
