Jewellery
Useful to test the gems if possible like diamonds and sapphires
Beware of fakes and copies
If buying mourning jewellery check for damage to hair
Enamel jewellery needs to be free of damage
Beware missing stones
Rings might have replacement bands or chips and crack to stones
Discolouration of the metal
Silver
Check if hallmarks are worn and rubbed
Check for cracks, dents and scratches
Discolouration of the silver
Misshapen items
Chips on any enamel
Tortoiseshell
Check for cracks
Is it faux?
Missing bits of silver or gold pique work devalue item
Ceramics
Check for cracks and hairlines by giving it a ‘ping’
Check for chips
Restoration can be detected by rubbing on teeth to see if soft
Is it transfer printed or hand painted as affects the price?
Check authenticity for later copies such as Sampson
Glass
Check for chips or ground-down foot or rims
Is it etched later?
Check if glass is clear or bubbles, older glass shows imperfections
Wood
Look at patina and colour
Is it faded or cracked
Is it a marriage of 2 different pieces put together?
Are the joints firm?
Collectables
Are they original?
Is anything missing?
Any damage?
