How do I find out what my lamp is worth?

How do I find out what my lamp is worth?

Lamps are often more valuable when left in an original condition with most or all the original parts. Lightly scratch the underside of the lamp surface to determine the type of material it is made from. Some lamps may appear to be made of metal, but they might also be painted to look and feel just like metal.

How do you identify an antique lamp?

Antique lamps should feature hand-painted designs, so look for brush marks. If the work is perfectly smooth, it might be a decal. You can also identify a decal by touch — decals are smooth, while paint feels textured. Generally, the presence of decals indicates a modern reproduction rather than an antique.

How do you date a lamp by the plug?

Clues in the Cord In an electric lamp, the cord often reveals the clue to the lamp’s age, unless the cord has been replaced. Inspect the cord; if it looks old, the lamp probably is as well. The metal prongs on the plug are likely the same size, rather than one end that is larger than the other.

What are the most valuable antique lamps?

The 12 Most Expensive Lamps In The World

• Genoese Crystal Chandeliers – $677,203.
• Daum Crystal Chandelier – $680,000.
• Classical French 48 Candle Chandelier – $740,000.
• Salviati Chandelier – $1,000,000.
• Tiffany Wisteria Lamp – $1,565,000.
• Kuwaiti Mall Chandelier – $1.8 million.
• Pink Lotus Tiffany Lamp – $2.8 million.

How do I identify my lamp maker?

Lamp Maker’s Mark Antique Lamp Supply recommends picking up the lamp and looking for a manufacturer’s symbol, name or date stamp embedded into the base. Also look on the lighting fixture itself; sometimes, the manufacturer includes a sticker that includes the name, or date of manufacture.

Are old light fixtures worth money?

Antique light fixtures are a valuable and inspirational decorative accent in a real estate investment. The historical significance and unique styling associated with antique lighting fixtures make them a luxurious element in a home design.

How can I tell what brand my lamp is?

Antique Lamp Supply recommends picking up the lamp and looking for a manufacturer’s symbol, name or date stamp embedded into the base. Also look on the lighting fixture itself; sometimes, the manufacturer includes a sticker that includes the name, or date of manufacture.

How can you tell if a lamp is a mid century?

Know The Look Like midcentury architecture, furniture and textiles, the lamps from this period have geometric shapes, simple lines and a space-age feel. Look for shapes such as globes, hourglasses and rings to kickstart your search.

How do you identify a glass slag lamp?

You can determine antique slag glass with a few steps:

1. Look at the coloring for a marbling effect. It should not just be white streaks mixed in with another color, or one solid color.
2. Examine the color. Antique slag items are usually brown, blue, green or purple.
3. Look for names and marks of manufacturers.

How can you tell if a lamp is brass?

Solid brass is not magnetic. If the magnet sticks, the item is usually steel or cast iron, with a brass plating. If the magnet does not stick, you can test further by scratching a hidden area with a sharp tool. If you see a shiny yellow scratch, the item is likely solid brass.

How can I tell how old a light fixture is?

Check for wiring, gas tubes and markings on the sockets to narrow down the age range of the fixture. If the fixture looks brand new and has modern wiring, it is most likely a reproduction and not an antique.

What are Stiffel lamps?

Stiffel lamps were made using a variety of materials that included bronze, brass, pewter, and silver. Finishes included brushed, polished and antique brass, polished nickel or silver, or a combination of silver and black. A few were gunmetal gray, Roman bronze or burnt umber. Most of all, look for quality.

How to tell if you have a lamp that is worth money?

Vintage light bulbs are occasionally worth more than the lamp itself. Finials made from semi-precious stones or ivory offer a huge clue that your lamp has value. Finials are the knob that hold shades to the lamp base. Lee Grayson has worked as a freelance writer since 2000.

How old does a lamp have to be to be considered antique?

It might not meet the traditional definition of 100 years old to claim status as an antique, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a fortune as a collectible. Examine the overall condition of the lamp. Look at the type of damage to determine if repairs are possible.

How can you tell if a lamp is old?

The markings on these might be the only clue to the lamp maker. Look at the wiring as a clue to the age and the lamp’s maker. Cotton-wrapped wires mean an older lamp, but owners typically repair or replace wiring. Examine the interior of the bulb socket and the plug for any marking clues.