Silver Hallmarks Identification: 7 Best Clues

Silver hallmarks identification close-up of sterling marks on antique spoons and a small silver box

Silver hallmarks identification helps you answer one of the most important questions about an old spoon, tray, tea set, box, watch case, or piece of jewelry: is it sterling silver, silverplate, coin silver, or something else? The answer can change value dramatically. A mark can point to metal standard, maker, assay office, date letter, country, … Read more

Antique Pricing: 7 Best Ways to Value Items

Antique pricing guide with dealer examining vintage items

Antique pricing is difficult because antiques do not have one fixed price. The same object can sell for different amounts depending on condition, rarity, demand, location, provenance, and selling venue. A smart antique pricing process does not chase the highest listing online. It identifies the item, checks real sold prices, adjusts for condition, and chooses … Read more

How to Identify Antiques by Marks and Materials

How to identify antiques by inspecting silver marks and condition

Learning how to identify antiques starts with a simple rule: do not judge an object by age alone. A useful identification checks the whole item, then studies the details that confirm or challenge your first impression. If you want to know how to identify antiques before buying, selling, or asking an appraiser, start with maker … Read more