How to learn about antiques

The most common definition of an antique is anything created between 50 and 100 years ago. When you're starting to learn about antiques, the key is to focus on one or two areas, and do some research on them. For example, if you have a particular interest in clocks, you might want to start by learning only about antique clocks. Once you feel comfortable with your level of knowledge, move on to the next antique you are interested in.

There are many different ways you can learn about antiques. You can start right here on eBay by looking at the items, noting first the item description and then examining its appearance. When you feel comfortable, send the seller an email requesting more information about the item. During your off-line hours, you can learn about antiques by checking out the following:

• Antique & Collectible shows
• Auction houses
• Antique shops
• Books
• Collector Clubs
• Flea Markets
• Magazines
• Museums

Attending an antique and collectible show, a flea market or an auction will often be the best way to get started in your quest to learn about antiques. Just browsing the items and listening to what the people in the industry have to say about them will give you a sense of what qualities are important to antique collectors. Spend time with antique dealers who own merchandise in which you are interested. Ask them questions about the history of the items, different subcategories, their physical composition, unique features to look out for, and so on. Don't be bashful! Most antique dealers are happy to share their expertise with you. There is a tight network within the antique community and getting to know the people who deal in your area of interest is a crucial step in the process of becoming a collecting pro.

Antique shops and museums are also a great place to learn. Local shop owners are usually willing to lend a hand to someone who is eager to learn. Joining a collector club will help as well. Clubs will provide you with a network of associates from which you can learn, trade, and establish life-long friendships.

Finally, there are many antique publications available for you to study: price guides, introductory books, focused studies, and many more. There are books for all levels of antique enthusiasts, from the novice to the expert. (Even experts can learn from their colleagues in the world of antiques).

The list of books below, although not exhaustive, provides a good place to start in your literary quest for knowledge on antiques.

Basic Book of Antiques & Collectibles by George Michael. Published by Wallace-Homestead Book Company. Chapters include furniture; glass; ceramics; metalwork; decorative art; textiles; and 36 categories of collectibles.

Discovering Antiques: A Guide to the World of Antiques and Collectibles by Eric Knowles. Published by De Agostini Editions. Provides basic collecting information as well as prices for highlighted items. Chapters include furniture; ceramics; glass; silver; clocks & watches; teddy bears, dolls & toys; carpets & textiles; art nouveau & art deco; and collectibles.

Kovels' Antiques and Collectibles Price List 1999 by Ralph & Terry Kovel. Published by Crown Trade Paperbacks. Provides tips for caring for antiques and collectibles, as well as over 50,000 appraiser-approved prices.

Maloney's Antiques and Collectibles Resource Directory by David Maloney Jr. Published by Antique Trader Books.

Miller's Understanding Antiques by Judith and Martin Miller. Published by Reed International Books Limited. Provides basic know-how to assess antique items. Chapters include furniture; pottery and porcelain; glass; clocks; rugs and carpets; arms and armor; art nouveau; art deco; dolls; toys; post-war design; English and American silver; and barometers.

Warman's Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide by Ellen Schroy. Published by Warman Publishing Company. Contains more than 500 collecting categories with tens of thousands of price listings and hundreds of photos of the most popular antiques and collectibles.

Definition of an "Antique"
How to Learn About Antiques
A Brief History of Antiques
Why People Collect Antiques
Factors Influencing Value
Tips for Finding and Buying
Tips for Listing and Selling
Displaying Your Collection
Caring for Your Collection
Insuring Your Collection
Books
Glossary