Antiques

What’s it worth?
The phrase “one woman’s trash is another woman’s treasure” suggests that something can be “worth” very little and at the same time be “valuable” depending on the perspective.

The process that I use to determine “value” when I am buying and selling is quite simple and here are some of the things I consider.

Who made the item? A signed hand painted Royal Worcester item would be more valuable that an anonymously painted piece even if it was of quality. Markings and maker’s marks give confirmation that the item is authentic.

Condition? Wear and tear from age is expected and can help to detect a modern fake. However chips, cracks, stains and fading all detract from the value, as do repairs and restoration.

Listed prices? There are a multitude of “price guides, magazines and websites keen to tell the ‘price’ of an item. Prices fluctuate a great deal over time, as things go in and out of fashion. Some trends are short lived and some last for a while. Publications can be out of date quickly. Bargains can be had if you keep just ahead of the trend.

Scarce? For enthusiasts it is finding that elusive colour, shape or design that keeps them searching to complete their collections. Ask any stamp collector the difference colour can make to the price of a penny stamp!

No value? While fashion, wear and tear will take their toll on many items, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. There are crafters, mosaic makers, and people who love to “re-make” or use spare parts, and create amazing treasures from items some-one may have considered trash!