For antique appraisals to be done properly, the appraiser needs to see and touch the item in order to determine its value.
That is why it is usually best to bring your article to the appraiser rather than attempt to find someone online to do the appraisal.
Online antique appraisals are not usually as accurate as appraisals in person because pictures can't come close to showing the piece like real life can.
There are many who claim to have the knowledge to appraise an antique because they have many years of experience buying and selling antiques themselves.
Although that may have some truth to it, the professional appraisers have actually studied the trade and they have the papers to prove it.
Don't be afraid to ask for credentials before paying someone to appraise your antique.
If you are looking to sell something you believe to be valuable, such as antique books, bottles, clocks, dishes, etc.
selling to an appraiser or collectibles dealer is not usually a good idea.
Although there are many honest appraisers/dealers, you may be dealing with someone who will take advantage of your lack of knowledge.
As well, knowing the history of your antique is very helpful in determining its value.
This is where the internet can help you.
There are many places you can do research on your antique dolls, cameras or chairs.
This will cost you nothing and you will be better equipped if and when you decide to take the next step and have an official appraisal done.
This may also help you determine if your item is indeed a valuable antique.
There are many criteria to look for when evaluating an antique - its condition, its age and how rare it is, just to name a few.
When searching for antiques to purchase, look out for reproductions.
To the naked eye, not everyone can tell the difference.
That is why it is important to seek the opinion of a professional before paying dearly for something that may not be as valuable as an antique dealer has made it out to be.
Beware before purchasing or selling anything that is considered an antique.
Doing your homework will pay off in the end.
You should be especially careful if someone offers you a free appraisal.
An opinion is not an appraisal.
Antique appraisers are not in the business of giving free antique appraisals.
For those of you who have attended auctions, you know that the auctioneer is there to get as much money as he can for each article he sells.
Some antiques purchased at auctions are sold for more than they are worth because of the hype.
Others are sold for less than their appraised value because the right person was not in attendance.
Usually when appraisals are done, the appraiser says that "at auction", the article could fetch a certain amount.
This is not a guarantee, it is a best case scenario.
The most important thing to remember when trying to put a value to a piece of history, is to cover all your bases.
Do as much research as you can.
Although antique appraisals are usually the best way to determine the worth of a prized possession, being educated and prepared are very close seconds.
Just remember, the one who has the most to gain or lose is you.