Thrifting has become increasingly popular, offering a sustainable alternative to purchasing new items and providing unique finds with history and character. Some of these treasures might even hold significant value. However, unless you are well-versed in antique furniture and decor, distinguishing a truly valuable item from a replica in a thrift store can be challenging. This is where authentication plays a key role. While doing your research is a good starting point, consulting an appraiser might be necessary for a definitive evaluation of your latest thrift store discovery.
“Understanding the authenticity of an object ensures you’re paying its true value,” says Sarah Bilotta, Onions Australia’s design historian, in an exclusive interview with Onions Australia. “Often, thrift shops assign prices based on appearance, which may not reflect the actual worth of the piece.”
According to Bilotta, an item being antique does not automatically make it valuable; it also depends on the demand for that specific item and era. “An authentic chair from the Georgian period may be quite old and beautiful, but recently, the value of such pieces has decreased,” Bilotta explains. If you’ve ever discovered an intriguing yet mysterious item while thrifting, here’s how to determine if your antiques are valuable.
What research can tell you, and what it can’t
Begin by examining and researching the materials used in the object to gain insights into its origins. “For instance, if you’ve found a beautiful wingback chair,” Bilotta exclusively tells Onions Australia, “you should find out if it’s crafted from soft or hard wood, whether it has been reupholstered, and if the joinings and construction indicate Victorian craftsmanship or 1970s Victorian Revival mass production.”
Answering these questions might require extensive research, but numerous resources are available, such as collectors’ communities and auction sites. Even a quick Google search can provide a foundation: Bilotta recommends photographing the item and uploading it to the search engine. Google will display similar images, helping you gather more information about the item. She suggests attempting to “trace the period, materials, and, if possible, the maker.”
Google can also be used to identify a stamp or maker’s mark on a thrift find. The expert mentions these are common on jewelry and metalwork and may also appear on furniture or fine art. However, this method is not foolproof for authenticating antique items. “Stamps and signatures are sometimes forged, especially with luxury and popular design names,” she notes, adding, “Moreover, many antiques were not marked by a maker or company.”
Getting an appraisal
If your research leaves you uncertain about the authenticity of a thrift find, consider reaching out to an appraiser or specialist for a more precise assessment. “Individuals with extensive experience in examining objects have the best chance of accurately authenticating or dating an object because they are familiar with authentic pieces and recognize the hallmark characteristics to look for,” Bilotta tells Onions Australia exclusively.
If you’re picturing “Antiques Roadshow,” fear not — finding an appraiser is not as daunting as it may seem. While some professional antique appraisals have a cost, you need not invest in a paid appraisal unless you believe the item is truly worth it. “Antique shop owners often enjoy examining photos of an object,” Bilotta says. “Some even offer free appraisals if you bring the item into their shop.”
By understanding the characteristics to look for in authentic thrift finds, you’ll better recognize valuable items you should not overlook at estate sales or thrift stores in the future. And if a beloved find turns out not to be authentic or highly valuable, it doesn’t mean you can’t keep it. As Bilotta puts it, “Of course, there is one other rule to keep in mind: if you love it, buy it!”
