Antiques and Collectibles

Different categories of antiques and collectibles:

The origin of the word ‘antique’ comes from antiquus, the Latin word for old. This establishes any old item as an antique or collectible. The older an item, the more value it is credited with. Most antiques and collectibles are desirable due to their assimilated value calculated on the basis of age, condition and utility. In fact, the best understanding is that of an object from a previous era in human existence. An antique can be any object that showcases art and craftsmanship. It could be an automobile, a desk, a toy or jewelry.

Resources for antiques and collectibles:

Antiques and collectibles from different distinct categories can be bought at the antique shops, online and offline. There are a number of dedicated resources that showcase a variety of collectibles, assimilated from all over the world. Many a times, antiques and collectibles are part of family heirloom and passed down as estate! The antiques dealers also organize auction services for genuine customers. The collectibles can be purchased online, through dedicated web sites and various online auctions.

Organizational definition of antiques and collectibles:

Authentic antique dealers are registered members of trade associations. The confederation of art and antique association operates and supervises the activities related to the preservation and sale of genuine antiques and collectibles. The association defines antiques differently, considering the source, product and credited year of creation. Ideally, antiques and collectibles are items that are at least a century old, displaying unique features. The categories flaunt motor vehicles, tools and even some electronic gadgets of more recent vintage.

An antique can be any decorative object - furniture or curio. It should have been produced in a former period and exhibit rare, primitive beauty. There is a distinct difference between genuine antiques and vintage or collectible objects. The term ‘antique’ is also commonly used to refer to the remains of ancient art. The whole exercise of antiquing involves identifying and negotiating for antiques. The archaeological grandeur that is characteristic of the antiques can be bought for personal use, to gift someone you love and even for profit! The process of antiquing could culminate at an estate or garage sale or at specially designated auction houses. However, you need to be careful because there have been cases of fraud reported, where an object was made to appear antique by applying a coat of paint that offered antique appeal!

Dedicated collectibles:

The combination of ‘antiques and collectibles’ comes out of the understanding that a collectible is a manufactured item, planned for people to collect and showcase. Collectibles include objects as varied as fossilized insects, stamps, toys, jewelry and even furniture. Some objects designed as collectibles become so popular that they are marketed to specific customers. The earliest collectibles that have survived are now sold separately, instead of being used as marketing tools. This is basically because their rarity and appeal add to their value, just like in the case of antiques.

Furniture antiques and collectibles:

The collecting of antique furniture includes the practical characteristics of tables, chairs, chests and bureaus. Antique furniture is usually crafted with oak, mahogany, pine and rosewood. Elm and walnut chests are sought after antique furniture. The quality of genuine antique furniture is assessed on the basis of distinctive grain and color of the wood type. The styles of antique furniture vary, depending on the era and region of manufacture. The common styles include Georgian, Victorian and Regency. Antique furniture is usually handed down as family heirloom.

The antiquarian indulgence:

The term antiquarian refers to the exercise of assimilating books. However, the modern understanding of the term antiquarian is not limited to books; it is used for a person who collects rare books and antiques and collectibles. The business of procuring and auctioning antiques and collectibles is a thriving one. The antiquarian trade involves the study of specific regional history and literature, culture and collectible history.