Question 1

How can you tell how old a mirror is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a mirror is, examine its back. Many pieces will feature a maker's mark or logo. By researching the mark or logo using trusted online resources, you may be able to determine who the manufacturer was and when they were active. Wooden backs often signify that a mirror is an antique, while paper backings are usually found on newer mirrors. If you need help dating a mirror, consult a certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer. Shop a wide range of mirrors on 1stDibs.

Question 2

How can you tell how old jewelry is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old jewelry is, you can compare its stylistic features to images of pieces featured on trusted online resources (engraving on a signet ring, for example, may indicate that a piece dates back at least to the 1900s). Another option is to look for a stamp or hallmark that indicates who the maker is. With some research, you may be able to determine where a manufacturer was located and how long the company was in business. It’s important to note that not all vintage or antique-looking jewelry is actually vintage or antique. Experts recommend that you take the jewelry to a certified appraiser who can evaluate and date the piece. Shop a range of jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 3

How can I tell how old my Wedgwood is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old your Wedgwood is, examine it for markings. Most Wedgwood pieces bear factory marks in an inconspicuous area, such as on the bottom or back. By comparing these markings to trusted online resources, you can usually get a rough idea of a piece’s age. For assistance with dating a particular piece, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced dealer. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Wedgwood pottery.

Question 4

How can I tell how old ivory is?

Accepted Answer

You can often tell the age of an ivory piece by its color. Since ivory is a natural material, it acquires a patina over time. An ivory patina is usually dull yellow or brown — beware of a bright yellow patina, as this could indicate artificial aging. If your ivory piece doesn’t have a maker’s mark or date on it, take it to an expert to identify the exact era it came from. Shop a collection of vintage ivory art from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 5

How can I tell how old a firkin is?

Accepted Answer

Take your firkin to an expert antique appraiser to tell how old your piece is. There have been many different styles over the centuries, and a firkin’s wood and hoop construction play an important role when placing it in a particular era. Shop antique firkins on 1stDibs from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 6

How can I tell how old a chandelier is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old your chandelier is, look for a maker’s mark often included somewhere on the chandelier. From there, you can research the specific company that manufactured it. Also consider the power source — candle- and gas-lit chandeliers were common until the early 1900s when electric chandeliers became popular. Even if your chandelier was upgraded to be fully electric, check for signs of the previous system. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary chandeliers from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

How can you tell how old costume jewelry is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old costume jewelry is, first look for identifying marks. You can then use trusted online resources to determine who made the piece. Once you know the maker, you can then research their designs to try and estimate the age. The best way to determine how old a piece of costume jewelry is would be to consult a knowledgeable appraiser or antique jewelry dealer for assistance with dating the accessory. On 1stDibs, explore a collection of vintage and antique jewelry.

Question 8

How can I tell how old my Chanel bag is?

Accepted Answer

To date your Chanel bag, first check the serial number, which can reveal when the bag was made (a quick search online can be of help). Chanel began including serial numbers at the bottom of its bags in the mid-1980s. Between six and eight digits long, depending on date of release, they indicate the bag style and year of manufacture, and their formatting has changed regularly over the years. If your bag’s serial number has eight digits, it was made between 2005 and now. Find vintage and contemporary Chanel bags, clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

Question 9

How can I tell how old a bronze sculpture is?

Accepted Answer

Bronze will begin to patina as it ages, and is a great way to check the age of a bronze piece. Bronze generally uses copper as an alloy, which captures an underlying and beautiful pink color. You can also have a professional determine the age of your bronze sculpture. Shop a collection of antique bronze sculptures from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 10

How can I tell how old a lamp cord is?

Accepted Answer

A lamp cord is a pretty good indicator as to how old the lamp is. If the cord looks old, it most likely is. Also, the plug itself will have prongs that are the same size, compared with modern plugs that have one side larger than the other side. Shop a collection of antique lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 11

How can I tell how old a liquor bottle is?

Accepted Answer

Some liquor bottles have a two digit number molded into the glass. Using whisky bottles as an example, you’ll find the number in the lower right when looking at the bottom. This can tell you within a year or two when the whisky was bottled. On 1stDibs, find vintage and antique liquor bottles from some of the top sellers around the world.

Question 12

How can I tell how old my cedar chest is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a cedar chest is, look for a stamp or label that indicates the maker's name. In some cases, you may find a date printed on the label. Otherwise, use trusted online resources to determine the years that the manufacturer operated and when it produced chests similar to yours. Alternatively, you can consult a certified appraiser or licensed antique dealer for assistance dating the piece. Find a collection of cedar chests on 1stDibs.

Question 13

How can I tell how old my Gucci bag is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a Gucci bag is, find the serial number located inside the bag. Usually, it will appear on the back of the leather Gucci tag sewn into the interior. Once you locate the number, consult trusted online resources to determine which bag corresponds to it. You may also be able to receive assistance from Gucci customer service once you have the serial number. Gucci began in 1921 as a modest Italian leather shop. Today, it’s an internationally renowned luxury house with an iconic logo, and vintage Gucci clothing, handbags and shoes are among high fashion's most covetable goods. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Gucci bags from some of the world's top boutiques.

Question 14

How can you tell how old a vintage chair is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a vintage chair is, first try and locate the manufacturer's label, tag or mark. Typically, identifying markings and tags appear under cushions or on the undersides of chairs. You may find that the date of manufacturing appears on the label or tag. If not, check trusted online resources to find out when the manufacturer was in business to make an estimate of the age. When in doubt, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or antiques dealer to help you date a particular chair. Find an assortment of antique, vintage and modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 15

How can I tell how old my Gruen watch is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old your Gruen watch is, turn it over and examine the back of its case. Most timepieces feature two numbers positioned side by side or one above the other. The first, or top, number represents the caliber number, while the second, or bottom, number is the style number. Once you have the style number, you can cross-reference it with trusted online resources to determine its age, and learn more about your timepiece. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Gruen watches.

Question 16

How can I tell how old a Persian rug is?

Accepted Answer

To date a Persian rug, first identify the style of the rug. Look for signs of natural wear and any damage that has been repaired. Vegetable dyes, which fade over time, were commonly used before the 20th century. Modern Persian rugs are occasionally bleached to mimic natural aging, but if you examine the colors closely, you'll be able to tell authentic gradual fading from synthetic defined fading. Shop a collection of expertly-vetted Persian rugs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 17

How can you tell how old a Coach bag is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a Coach bag is, check the interior. Many bags have the month and year of production stamped inside or printed on an interior label. If your bag doesn't have a date, an expert appraiser can help you determine its age. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Coach bags.

Question 18

How can I tell how old a piece of furniture is?

Accepted Answer

There are a couple ways to check the age of your furniture. First, check for any labels, signatures or stamps. Also, check the type of wood and metal that was used for the piece. You can also take your piece to an expert for further inspection. Shop a collection of antique furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 19

How can I tell how old a cameo brooch is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a cameo brooch is for certain, you usually need to consult a licensed jewelry appraiser. This is because many authentic pieces do not have marks, and there are many modern reproductions that resemble the antique jewelry. Find a selection of expertly vetted antique cameo brooches on 1stDibs.

Question 20

How can I tell how old a cigar box is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a cigar box is, look for the caution notice. Caution notices are required by law but before 1910, they were pasted on the cigar box. After 1910, caution notices were printed directly onto the bottom of the box. Shop a collection of antique cigar boxes from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How Can You Tell How Old Is Crystal

1990s Italian Brooches

Valentino Starfish Brooch Crystal Pearl New Old Stock 1990s

Vintage 1980s American Brooches

Ciner Brooch Swarovski crystal Star Fish Pin New Old Stock 1980s

Vintage 1980s American Brooches

Ciner Swarovski Brooch Crystal Sea Shell Gold tone New Old Stock 1980s

Vintage 1980s American Clip-on Earrings

Swarovski Earrings Crystal Cream Square New, Never Worn

Vintage 1980s American Clip-on Earrings

Ciner Earrings Blue & Green Swarovski Crystal New, Never worn

Vintage 1980s American Bangles

Ciner Bracelet Giraffe Swarovski Crystal Bangle New, never worn 1980s

Vintage 1980s American Brooches

Ciner Horse Head Pin Brooch Swarovski Crystals New, Never Worn 1980s

Vintage 1980s Italian Brooches

Gianfranco FERRE Brooch Black Shell Crystal New, Never worn Pin 1980s

Vintage 1980s American Choker Necklaces

Ciner Necklace Green Blue & Yellow swarovski Crystal New, Never Worn -1980s

Vintage 1980s American Brooches

Ciner Brooch Swarovski Crystal Floral AMBER Gold NEW Never worn 1990s

1990s Brooches

Swarovski Brooch Crystal Enamel Red & Black Butterfly 1990s New, Never worn

1990s French Chandelier Earrings

Philippe Ferrandis Chandelier Earrings Baroque Pearl New Old stock 1990s

1990s American Bangles

Ciner Bracelet Swarovski Crystal Bangle New, Never Worn 1990s

Vintage 1980s Italian Clip-on Earrings

GIANFRANCO FERRE Massive Abalone Crystal Earrings never worn 1980s

Vintage 1980s American Link Necklaces

Stunning Ciner Pink swarovski Crystal Necklace 1980s New, never worn

Vintage 1980s Drop Necklaces

SWAROVSKI Crystal Gold Gilt Drop Necklace Circle New, Never Worn 1980s

Vintage 1980s American Clip-on Earrings

Ciner Red White and Blue swarovski Crystal Earrings New, Never Worn 1980s

Antique Late 19th Century French Late Victorian Vases

Pair of Late 19th Century Blue Opaline Bohemian Drop-Shaped, Gilded Vases

1990s American Brooches

Ciner Swarovski Brooch Pendant black & Red, New Never worn 1990s

1990s American Brooches

Kenneth Jay Lane KJL Brooch Cruciform Star Pin

1990s French Brooches

Philippe Ferrandis Brooch Floral Gold Gilt New Never Worn 1990s

1990s French Dangle Earrings

Philippe Ferrandis Vintage 1990s Purple Pink Earrings Never worn Paris France

Antique Late 19th Century Persian Tribal Rugs

Palace Size HALVAI BIDJAR Nomadic Masterpiece COCOON TO BUTTERFLY STORYLINE

Early 2000s Contemporary Mixed Media

Stefanie SchneiderWonder Valley (29 Palms, CA) - analog, mounted, installation, music, video, text, 2008

Early 2000s Contemporary Color Photography

Stefanie SchneiderMagic Mountain 1 (Memories of Green) analog, expired, landscape, 2003

1990s Contemporary Nude Photography

Stefanie SchneiderOuttake (29 Palms, CA) - 58x56cm, analog, Polaroid, Contemporary, 20th Century, 1999

2010s Contemporary Color Photography

Stefanie SchneiderHaley and the Bird Man (Haley and the Birds) - Polaroid, 21st Century, analog, 2013

Early 2000s Contemporary Color Photography

Stefanie SchneiderWinchester (Wastelands) - Contemporary, 21st Century, Polaroid, Figurative, 2003

Vintage 1980s French Artist Drop Earrings

Maison Gripoix Vintage White and Purple Dangling Earrings Circa 1980s

1990s Contemporary Landscape Photography

Stefanie SchneiderThe Shaman (The Girl...) - Polaroid, Contemporary, 21st Century, Color, Photo, 2015

Early 2000s Contemporary Landscape Photography

Stefanie SchneiderInside the Trailer - 21st Century, Polaroid, Figurative, Photograph, Nude, 2005

Early 2000s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Stefanie SchneiderOasis (Sidewinder) - 21st Century, Contemporary, Polaroid, Landscape, 2005

Early 2000s Contemporary Landscape Photography

Stefanie SchneiderThe Village Motel Sunset (The Last Picture Show), analog, mounted, 2005

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Mixed Media

Ryan Mc ElhinneyFORGIVE ME FATHER TITLED (FORGI VEMEF) Mixed media by Ryan Mc Elhinney, 2013

Vintage 1980s American Brooches

Swarovski Crystal Brooch Bumble Bee Pin New Old Stock 1980s

Vintage 1980s American Brooches

Swarovski Brooch "Jeweler's Collection" Crystal Enamel Shield Griffin New 1980s

Early 2000s Contemporary Landscape Photography

Stefanie SchneiderContemporary, Abstract, Landscape, USA, Polaroid, Land, Schneider, photograph, 1999

1990s Contemporary Portrait Photography

Stefanie SchneiderUnbound (Wastelands) Contemporary, 21st Century, Polaroid, Portrait, Photograph, 1999

Vintage 1980s French Artist Beaded Necklaces

Vintage Chanel Long Pearl Necklace Circa 1980s

Vintage 1980s French Artist Clip-on Earrings

Stefanie Schneider
Wonder Valley (29 Palms, CA) - analog, mounted, installation, music, video, text, 2008

Stefanie Schneider
Magic Mountain 1 (Memories of Green) analog, expired, landscape, 2003

Stefanie Schneider
Outtake (29 Palms, CA) - 58x56cm, analog, Polaroid, Contemporary, 20th Century, 1999

Stefanie Schneider
Haley and the Bird Man (Haley and the Birds) - Polaroid, 21st Century, analog, 2013

Stefanie Schneider
Winchester (Wastelands) - Contemporary, 21st Century, Polaroid, Figurative, 2003

Stefanie Schneider
The Shaman (The Girl...) - Polaroid, Contemporary, 21st Century, Color, Photo, 2015

Stefanie Schneider
Inside the Trailer - 21st Century, Polaroid, Figurative, Photograph, Nude, 2005

Stefanie Schneider
Oasis (Sidewinder) - 21st Century, Contemporary, Polaroid, Landscape, 2005

Stefanie Schneider
The Village Motel Sunset (The Last Picture Show), analog, mounted, 2005

Ryan Mc Elhinney
FORGIVE ME FATHER TITLED (FORGI VEMEF) Mixed media by Ryan Mc Elhinney, 2013

Stefanie Schneider
Contemporary, Abstract, Landscape, USA, Polaroid, Land, Schneider, photograph, 1999

Stefanie Schneider
Unbound (Wastelands) Contemporary, 21st Century, Polaroid, Portrait, Photograph, 1999

Stefanie Schneider
In front of Trailer (Sidewinder), diptych - Polaroid, Nude, Contemporary, Analog, 2005