Question 1

How do I know if a tapestry is valuable?

Accepted Answer

To know if a tapestry is valuable, seek the help of a licensed appraiser. Because condition has a big impact on what a tapestry is worth, you will need an expert to thoroughly inspect the textile. On 1stDibs, find a range of expertly vetted tapestries.

Question 2

How do you know if ametrine is real?

Accepted Answer

To know if ametrine is real, you can carefully observe the shades it emits. A real ametrine emits the purple color of amethyst and the yellow color of citrine — its parent elements. A transparent stone, ametrine has very few flaws and displays a great deal of clarity.

Question 3

How do I know if my pottery is McCoy?

Accepted Answer

Up until 1929, McCoy Pottery did not routinely mark its items. After 1929, a maker’s mark with either an overlapping “N” and “M” or “M” and “C” can indicate an authentic McCoy pottery item. McCoy Pottery created a variety of utilitarian and art pottery pieces, so it is wise to work with an appraiser to determine the authenticity of any McCoy piece. Find a variety of expertly vetted McCoy pottery items on 1stDibs.

Question 4

How do I know if my IWC is real?

Accepted Answer

To tell if your IWC watch is real, first examine the dial. All of the pieces and numbers should be sharp, clear and precise. IWC manufactures their watches to an extremely high standard and any sign of sloppy workmanship is a dead giveaway. Counterfeiters will often use the wrong fonts and colors, so compare your watch against reference pictures of the genuine article. IWC is known for its slim design on their bezels and crowns, and all the pieces should be sleek and fit perfectly together. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of expertly-vetted IWC watches from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 5

How do I know if my chair is Thonet?

Accepted Answer

An authentic Thonet chair will have the company’s name with a solid line underneath carved somewhere on the chair. The brand can also confirm the authenticity and age of a Thonet chair via its website. Shop a variety of authentic Thonet furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 6

How do I know if my painting is valuable?

Accepted Answer

The best way to know if a painting is valuable is to take it to a certified appraiser. Although you can estimate the value using trusted online resources, only a knowledgeable expert can take into consideration the specific characteristics of the work, such as its current condition. Shop a selection of paintings from some of the world's top galleries on 1stDibs.

Question 7

How do I know my Rolex is genuine?

Accepted Answer

To know if your Rolex is genuine, examine the serial number. You will find it on the back of the case between the lugs at the bottom. Hold your watch up to the light and look at the number while you tilt it. An authentic Rolex will show off a subtle glow around the edges of the stamp. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of expertly vetted Rolex watches.

Question 8

How do I know if my jade is valuable?

Accepted Answer

To know if jade is valuable, you will likely need to consult a certified appraiser. The type of object you’re interested in exploring, its age, condition and size will all impact how much it's worth. A knowledgeable professional can take a look at a piece of jade jewelry or a jade decorative object and give you an accurate estimate of its value. With respect to jade jewelry, market conditions will be a factor as well as color, cut, clarity and texture. On 1stDibs, find a selection of jade jewelry and decorative objects.

Question 9

How do you know if it's Imari?

Accepted Answer

You can identify Imari by the shades and patterns used. There are two styles of Imari porcelain — Kakiemon and Kinrande Imari. Kakiemon features dark floral patterns, while Kinrande displays dark patterns displaying the beauty of nature, animals and people. Find a collection of Imari on 1stDibs.

Question 10

How do I know if my Satsuma is real?

Accepted Answer

Satsuma porcelain or pottery includes a maker’s mark with the name of the person who made the item. Japanese numbers may also indicate that a Satsuma piece was part of a collection. Genuine Satsuma pieces will not have a “Made in Japan” label and should only include Japanese characters. When in doubt, work with a certified appraiser to determine the authenticity of your Satsuma piece. Find a variety of expertly vetted Satsuma porcelain and pottery collectibles on 1stDibs.

Question 11

How do I know if my porcelain is antique?

Accepted Answer

To know if porcelain is antique, start by looking for any maker's marks and researching their origins. In many cases, it is necessary to enlist the help of a licensed appraiser to accurately date porcelain ware. You'll find a selection of expertly vetted antique porcelain on 1stDibs.

Question 12

How do I know if my Bulgari is real?

Accepted Answer

There are a few ways to determine whether or not your Bulgari jewelry is real. First, Bulgari uses the highest quality material for all of its pieces, such as 18-karat gold, platinum, silver or steel with meticulously cut gemstones and diamonds. Second, all pieces should be stamped with “made in Italy” and a “BVLGARI” text. Note that Bulgari uses the classic Latin alphabet, which is why a “V” is used in place of a “U.” Browse a large collection of authentic Bulgari jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 13

How do I know if my fireplace is a Malm?

Accepted Answer

To know if your fireplace is a Malm, first look for a label. The brand usually added labels to the back of their pieces, but it's possible that the marking fell off over the years. If you can't locate a label, ensure that the fireplace has a pedestal base, as the maker included them on all of its mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of vintage fireplaces on 1stDibs.

Question 14

How do I know if my vase is valuable?

Accepted Answer

To find out whether a vase is valuable, you will need to do some research using trusted online resources. The maker, materials, style, age and condition of the vase will impact its value as well as how rare it is and what the current demand is for pieces of its kind. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer can also provide you with an estimate of the value. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vases.

Question 15

How do I know if my Birkin is real?

Accepted Answer

To know if your Birkin is real, check the heat stamp inside. Beneath the front flap of a real Birkin is the phrase of dreams: Hermès Paris Made in France. Label stamps are lightly pressed into the leather in gold or silver or as a colorless imprint; metallics generally match the hardware. Check that the accent is correct on the è, the stamp is perfectly centered and at the correct distance from the top (very close to the top stitching), and the letters are clear and fine (not heavy-handed). It shouldn’t look engraved, painted on or irregular. Done by the hand of an experienced artisan, the stitches on the Birkin are slightly angled, tight and precise. Generally, the thread is the same color as the bag. Since the stitching is hand-done, it may have small inconsistencies — but it will never be messy. Sloppy work such as loose or hanging threads is the work of a counterfeiter, not a lazy artisan. There are no lazy artisans in the world of Hermès. Find a collection of Hermès Birkin bags on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What should I know before buying a Rolex?

Accepted Answer

There are a few things you should know before buying a Rolex. The first question to ask yourself is whether you want a new, pre-owned or vintage Rolex. Although definitions vary, pre-owned watches are generally those less than 20 years old, while vintage watches are 20 years old and up.

Buying a new, never-worn watch enables you to build a history with it that isn’t shared by anyone else, but the greatest advantage to buying a pre-owned Rolex is that it opens up a wider range of models to consider, including rare ones that have been discontinued. (Everyone seems to have heart-shaped eyes for vintage watches right now.)

Before shopping for a Rolex online, you may want to become acquainted with its components, such as the movement, the case and the lugs, so that you can easily compare and contrast your options.

Familiarize yourself with popular Rolex models, which include the Oyster Perpetual, the Submariner and the Daytona. Which one is a good fit for you? Each model has its own look, features and personality.

The choice of a strap or bracelet can drastically affect the look of your watch, making it formal or casual, traditional or daring. Although often an afterthought, it’s an important element.

See our official Rolex buying guide, and find an exquisite collection of vintage Rolex watches today on 1stDibs.

Question 17

How do I know if my Longchamp is authentic?

Accepted Answer

To know if your Longchamp is authentic, first look for its serial number. It should begin with AA, AE or AB and will appear both on a tag inside the bag and on the plastic cover that a new Longchamp arrives in. Next, check the zippers. They should move smoothly and will usually carry YKK markings. On leather bags, the strap and flaps should also be crafted out of genuine leather. If you need assistance authenticating your bag, seek the help of a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert. Explore a variety of Longchamp bags on 1stDibs.

Question 18

How do I know if my figurines are valuable?

Accepted Answer

To know if your figurines are valuable, first try to determine the maker. Look for markings on the bottoms or backs of your figurines to get started. You can snap a photo of the markings and perform a reverse image search online or type a description of them into a search engine. Once you have determined the maker, you can do research to learn how much figurines similar to yours have sold for in the past. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer assess your piece and give you an estimate of how much it is worth based on its type, maker, age and condition. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of figurines.

Question 19

Do people know who Banksy is?

Accepted Answer

No, people generally don't know who Banksy is. Presumably, some of the employees of Pest Control, the company that handles authentication and sales for the street artist, do know his identity. However, Banksy goes to great lengths to conceal his identity from the public. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Banksy art.

Question 20

How do you know if a rosary is antique?

Accepted Answer

To know if a rosary is antique, check its beads. The beads on modern rosaries are largely made of wood, glass or inexpensive plastic, and they’re likely linked by a chain or a cord. Old rosary beads were frequently strung on silk or another type of thread.

Hundreds of years ago, some rosaries, such as those produced during the 16th century for example, were made by goldsmiths. The era of mass production for these prayer beads began to take shape during the 15th century, and this development allowed for rosaries to be made of materials such as lead, glass, bone and wood. Online resources suggest that if the rosary’s crucifix and center medal are not made of the same material, it’s likely that a component of your rosary has been replaced over the years.

In order to properly determine the age of your rosary, experts recommend working with an antiques dealer or other type of professional in the collectibles realm.

Over time, vintage and antique religious artifacts have become popular with collectors and the devout alike, and religious art has been used to express devotion across a range of media. Find rosaries today on 1stDibs.

All Knowing

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Prints

Johnathan BallAll Knowing

2010s Indian Anglo-Indian Fashion Rings

All Knowing Aquamarine Ring

1990s Pop Art More Art

DC Comics Studio ArtistsSuperman The Animated Series Original Production Cel & Background: Brainiac, Circa 1990's

1990s Pop Art More Art

DC Comics Studio ArtistsBatman The Animated Series Original Cel on Original Background: Brainiac, Circa 1990's

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art Mixed Media

Robert LebsackKnowing The Difference - Surrealist Figurative Original Art, 2022

2010s Contemporary Portrait Paintings

John Baker"He Stayed Behind in Katmandu II", contemporary, portrait, collage, mixed media, 2012

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Contemporary Art

Framed Kimono Art, "Lys Blanc" by Kimono-Couture, Japanese Wall Art, Textile Art

2010s Contemporary Paintings

Chris McAdooManifest - All These Voices

2010s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Sarah BrennemanAll All Along, 2023, abstract, colorful, watercolor and acrylic on paper, 2023

2010s Sculptures

Leon BronsteinAll You Need is Love

2010s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Sax BerlinAll The World Is But A Stage, 2018

2010s Pop Art Nude Paintings

THEDIRTYFABULOUSGarden of Earthly Delights, Pop & Fantastical Symbolism, Oil Painting on Metal, 2013

2010s Brazilian Natural Specimens

All Natural Amethyst Geode Cluster with World-Class Grape Purple Amethyst Druzy

2010s Brazilian Natural Specimens

All Natural Amethyst Geode Cluster with World-Class Grape Purple Amethyst Druzy

2010s Expressionist Figurative Paintings

Josette Simon-Gestin'Museum Musings #3 After Frida, ' Josette Simon-Gestin, Acrylic Painting, 2022

Early 1900s Victorian Portrait Paintings

William Arthur BreakspeareWilliam Arthur Breakspeare RBA RBSA ROI, The Captain Of The Guard, c. 1900

Early 2000s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Stefanie SchneiderAfter All (Cyndi Lauper) - 'Bring Ya to the Brink' record cover shoot, 2009

2010s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Deirdre Schanen"It's All I Ask Of You, " Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas by Dierdre Schanen, 2016

21st Century and Contemporary American Victorian Chairs

Refurbished Hand Carved Lion and Duck Chair

2010s Modern Center Tables

I0I Centre Table by Raka Studio

2010s Organic Modern Furniture

Stool by Raka Studio in Bent Ash Wood

1830s Romantic Portrait Drawings and Watercolors

French Romantic school, Portrait of a young soldier, drawing, circa 1830

2010s Asian Organic Modern Floor Lamps

Floor Lamp No. 4 - Vrksa Series - Bent Ash Wood

2010s Modern Center Tables

Oval, Centre Table by Raka Studio

2010s Italian Shoulder Bags

Burberry Black Leather TB Elongated Chain Bag

2010s Pakistani Organic Modern Sofas

Two Seater No. 1 - Fluentum Series by Raka Studio, with Velvet Upholstery

Antique 1890s European Art Deco Bangles

Art Deco Sapphire Diamond Bracelet 18k Gold Box, 1890

2010s Abstract Geometric Abstract Paintings

Kyle Andrew SzpyrkaKyle Andrew Szpyrka - Unity 3-1, Painting 2021, 2021

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Ajegbomogun DamilolaBleasure 7 (The Invented Destiny), 2023

2010s American Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Sea Lion necklace

Vintage 1970s Swiss Modern Wrist Watches

Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Finished Tiffany Blue Dial, 1970s

2010s Modern Paintings

Daniel StroupOn Pier 7, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2017

2010s Contemporary Mixed Media

Raphael Mazzucco"Gypsy" archival print, oil paint and mixed media encased in resin by Mazzucco, 2013

2010s Surrealist Animal Paintings

Rudolf KosowWonderers (coyote, ukulele, man, nature, animal portrait, surrealist painting), 2024

Antique Mid-19th Century Chinese Qing Metalwork

Chinese Baitong Stacking Incense Clock, c. 1850

1990s Expressionist Landscape Paintings

Onofre ProhensProhens Almond Blossom Mallorca. original acrylic painting, 1990

2010s French Armchairs

Slipper or Lounge Chair in Bronze by Anasthasia Millot

Vintage 1910s Italian Art Nouveau Armchairs

Artnouveau Black Wood and Vienna Straw Chairs, 1910

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Abstract Sculptures

21st Century Sculpture, Chimère by Adrien Coroller

2010s Indian Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Johnathan Ball
All Knowing

DC Comics Studio Artists
Superman The Animated Series Original Production Cel & Background: Brainiac, Circa 1990's

DC Comics Studio Artists
Batman The Animated Series Original Cel on Original Background: Brainiac, Circa 1990's

Robert Lebsack
Knowing The Difference - Surrealist Figurative Original Art, 2022

John Baker
"He Stayed Behind in Katmandu II", contemporary, portrait, collage, mixed media, 2012

Chris McAdoo
Manifest - All These Voices

Sarah Brenneman
All All Along, 2023, abstract, colorful, watercolor and acrylic on paper, 2023

Leon Bronstein
All You Need is Love

Sax Berlin
All The World Is But A Stage, 2018

THEDIRTYFABULOUS
Garden of Earthly Delights, Pop & Fantastical Symbolism, Oil Painting on Metal, 2013

Josette Simon-Gestin
'Museum Musings #3 After Frida, ' Josette Simon-Gestin, Acrylic Painting, 2022

William Arthur Breakspeare
William Arthur Breakspeare RBA RBSA ROI, The Captain Of The Guard, c. 1900

Stefanie Schneider
After All (Cyndi Lauper) - 'Bring Ya to the Brink' record cover shoot, 2009

Deirdre Schanen
"It's All I Ask Of You, " Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas by Dierdre Schanen, 2016

Kyle Andrew Szpyrka
Kyle Andrew Szpyrka - Unity 3-1, Painting 2021, 2021

Ajegbomogun Damilola
Bleasure 7 (The Invented Destiny), 2023

Daniel Stroup
On Pier 7, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2017

Raphael Mazzucco
"Gypsy" archival print, oil paint and mixed media encased in resin by Mazzucco, 2013

Rudolf Kosow
Wonderers (coyote, ukulele, man, nature, animal portrait, surrealist painting), 2024

Onofre Prohens
Prohens Almond Blossom Mallorca. original acrylic painting, 1990

Onofre Prohens
Prohens Mallorca 2 original acrylic painting, 1990

Onofre Prohens
Prohens Mallorca. original acrylic painting, 1990

Robin McCauley
Soothsayer, 2023

Robin McCauley
Missionary, 2023

Robin McCauley
Lecturer, 2023

annick cuadrado
Distributeur Pez Mickey Tribute, 2022

Kate Cohen
"In A TranceAtlantic Crossing" 2024 - Mixed Media Whimsical Surrealism colorful, 2024

Onofre Prohens
Prohens Mallorca. original acrylic painting, 1990