Finding antique china value is a process that has to be learned. The value of antique china depends on a few different factors, which include, but are not limited to:
Generally, you can find the age of china by the mark or signature found on the back. This mark will also give you an indication to the manufacturer.
Steps on How to Find the Value of China
Step #1 - Identify the China
The first thing you will need to do is to identify the china. There are a variety of ways to identify and find the history behind a china piece. It is possible for you to learn how to identify china. It is important to understand that while your china may have a sentimental value that it may not have monetary value.
Begin by collecting all the information you know about a piece. If the china in question is a family heirloom, then you can question people within your family. Someone may know a particular piece of information that will actually give you the date and country it was created. Write down everything you are told about the piece. Then try to decipher if all the information is valid.
Next, look for the markings or signatures. These are located on the back or bottom of a piece. You will want to look for the name of the country the piece was made in, as well as the year. This information became a law in the United States in 1890. Therefore, if the piece was created before 1890, you may have to do some more research.
Different types of Marks:
- Stamped marks
- Impressed marks
- Handwritten marks
- Paper/sticker marks
The stamped marks simply look like a stamp on the bottom. Impressed marks are actually cut into the china. Handwritten marks are generally a symbol or logo. However, they can be written in any language. Paper and sticker marks are printed and were fixed to the china with glue or shellac.
Other markings to look for are "export" marks. These marks are put on china that was made in one country and shipped to another. This is why you may see two different marks on the china.
Basic Guidelines for Dating Markings
The Royal Arms mark will be dated to the 19th or 20th century.When the printed mark has the name of the pattern, it can be dated after 1810.Marks that include the word "Limited" or the abbreviations "Ltd or Ld" can be dated after 1861.Marks that include the words "Trade Mark" denotes a date after 1862.
If you are trying to make a decision on whether to buy the china and want to find out its value, consider taking pictures with a digital camera. Take the pictures to an antique expert or try to locate the markings on the Internet or in books.
Step #2 - Check for Imperfections
This is an extremely important step, especially if you intend on investing and making a profit at selling antique china. With a magnifying glass and a black light, check the piece for chips, scratches, smudges, cracks, and stains. It is very difficult to see if a piece has been repaired without the use of these tools. A black light is great for helping you spot repairs. Under regular light, a piece of china may look flawless; however, under a black light, repairs will show.
To use a black light, take the china into a dark room. Shine the black light onto it. If there were any repairs make to cracks, you will be able to see them. If there were any touch ups with modern paint, the paint will glow. Every single imperfection will greatly reduce the value of the china.
Whether you are collecting antique china as a hobby or for a profit, you will want to make sure you are not being scammed. Take the necessary steps to protect yourself so you can truly enjoy the benefits of authentic china.
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