Recognizing fake and authentic artifacts can be tricky some of them look far to good to be true! Don’t let them scam you into thinking that something might be a deal of a lifetime. Sadigh Gallery will provide you with some tips on how to assure you’re purchasing exactly what you want. Or if you’re the one selling that you provide the potential customer with all the information needed.
- Do your research
The piece of a lifetime just showed up, and you absolutely must have it! A lot of the time we second guess our “is it to good to be true” instincts. Most of the time we’re right, some of the times we’re not. Seeing isn’t always believing. Do your research, and check it out as much as you can, look for specific details within the piece. If you’re still uncertain, ask if you can have the artifact inspected by a professional before purchase. The person selling it might not know of its authenticity themselves, so this is helpful for all parties.
- Is there a certificate of authenticity?
Most times with artifacts they should already be appraised. So, when if someone is selling an item that you believe to be authentic, ask. Most of the time there should be some form of document that has already been given the seal of approval. Again, if you’re still uncertain contact someone who can give you a better understanding.
- Are there specific markings to look for?
A quick google search can provide images of specific markings to individual artifact items. Pottery items will have a specific “signature” or emblem on it somewhere. The older the piece the more likely it will be a little worn off but still noticeable. For furniture items, the backside, or underside of most items will have the name and manufacturer on it. Most of the time there is some sort of specific identification from where the artifact originated from.
- Chemical tests
There are chemical tests that can be done on most items. This can be very carefully done to prevent damage to the artifact. Sometimes things can look just as you expect them to, but without being authentic. There are ways to fake items to look like they are weathered like they would if they were authentic. Chemical tests can be done to assure that the item you’re looking at is indeed real or fake. This process does take a little longer but is ultimately beneficial to defuse peoples concerns.
- Contact an appraiser.
Although it’s already been said before, the best way to ensure that what you might have is authentic. Contact someone who is an expert in the field of artifacts. There are several people across the country that would be able to give you further information. They can even help you with what questions to ask if you’re purchasing an item from any category, such as furniture, ancient statutes, paintings, Native American relics and so on.
