A Killing in Antiques (30 page)

Don’t buy it unless you love it. There are wonderful things out there, in every price range. Don’t buy an object just to have another one in your collection, or especially because it
might
increase in value.

Learn everything you can about the objects you love. There are books on almost any category of collectible or antique. Consult the annual antiques price lists. By the time they are printed, the prices are slightly out-of-date, but they are excellent sources for identifying antiques and collectibles, and they allow you to compare values.

Visit antiques shops, flea markets, and shows to familiarize yourself with objects. Each place is different. Some will be far more comfortable and appealing to you than others.

Cultivate the antique dealers who sell the kind of things you love. They’re fonts of information, and they love to share it, but please, consider their time, too; don’t ask them for information when they’re busy with customers.

Buy the best quality available in your price range. Look for damage, or signs of repair work, as you accumulate your collection. Hold back on cleaning, and “improving” the objects. Although they have survived this long, many have not had to withstand dishwashers and microwaves.

If the price is too low, beware! When a beginner comes across a bargain that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t expect to make a killing in antiques until you’ve made yourself an expert.

Use your collection. Don’t just hide it away.

Happy hunting!