Buying antiques such as antique jewelry, can be extremely challenging for a novice antique buyer. You must be able to discern between originals and reproductions, as well as the item’s age and which antiques are the best to buy. Finding antiques takes a keen eye and will ultimately require years of experience. Here are some tips that will get you started.

Perform Extensive Research

Successful antique shopping requires a lot of research and reading, so if you enjoy neither this might not be the best activity for you. An antique is an item which is over 100 years old. The best way to learn about these products is to become familiar with their history, which companies manufactured them, and when and where.

The more you learn about a specific antique, the better equipped you will be to identify and separate the fakes from the genuine article. Knowledge is truly power in the antiques business, and there are plenty of unscrupulous dealers willing to sell you overpriced, so called antiques which actually aren’t. The more you know, the less likely you are to fall for these scams.

Become A Niche Specialist

The term “antiques” is an extremely broad term which encompasses hundreds and thousands of items manufactured over the last century. Developing expertise of all these items would take many lifetimes, so instead of trying to become a jack of all trades it is best to concentrate on becoming an expert in one particular area of antiques. For instance, you could specialize in antique furniture, watches, clothing, cars or jewelry. Choose a class of antiques you’re passionate about which also happen to be very lucrative, and then learn as much as you can.

Learn The Art of Negotiation

Negotiation is more of an art than science, and the worst thing that you can do is be overly anxious when you do identify an antique you want. Once the seller gives you his or her price, ask them casually if their offer is firm or if this price is the best they have. Pay close attention to their response. Emotion has no place in the negotiations department, so keep your feelings in check at all times. If you’ve done your research as suggested you will have a good estimate of what the item is worth and that will put you in a better negotiating position. You should also be willing to walk away and show that with your actions as opposed to your words. Once the seller sees this you’re much more likely to get a great deal.

Examine The Item But Be Careful

Genuine antiques command top dollar and you should not spend a cent until you’ve touched and seen it up close. Look at the sides, beneath it and behind to look for any signs of repair or damage. Any item which is over 100 years old should show signs of wear unless it has been refurbished, and if so this should have been done by a professional. If the seller will not let you touch the antique (even with gloves) or examine it up close this should be your first red flag. Remember in the antique business, all sales are final, and if you break it; you buy it.