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When you are searching for an antique dining table to purchase, there are some things that you need to be concerned about. It is not uncommon for people to attempt to sell imitations as real antiques to unwitting consumers. If the consumer is told that the item is an actual antique, and it is just a fake, then this is called fraud. The best way to protect yourself from fraud is by knowing the difference between an antique and an imitation. The first thing you need to be aware of, is that for an item to be considered an antique, it has to be at least 100 years old. Whereas a collectible is anything a person might collect. To be considered a vintage collectible, is has to be at least 50 years old. A reproduction is an item that is designed to look like an antique, but has no value as far as antiques are concerned. Before you decide to purchase an antique dining table, it is wise to learn as much about them as you can. You can do this by taking a visit to a local antiques shop, mall, or auction. You can also talk to collectors and dealers that have a good reputation. You can also read and study price guides, books, magazines, and auction catalogs that feature the types of items you are considering buying. The greater your knowledge on the subject, the less likely you are to be sold something that is fake, or not what you thought it was. When you go shopping for your antique dining table, you should take with you a list of questions to ask the dealer. Any respectable dealer will have no problem answering any questions you might have. Ask if the dealer is a member of any sort of organization that specializes in antiques, and if they specialize in any field in particular. After all, a dealer who specializes in silver won't be able to help you when it comes to buying your antique dining table. How do they appraise the value of an item, and can they verify the authenticity of their items in writing? And make certain that the dealer is willing to take back the table if you're not happy with it, and that they're willing to refund your money. Especially if it turns out the item was misrepresented to you. Remember to always get a receipt when you buy an antique dining table, or any other antique. Make certain it contains the seller's name, address, phone number and date, as well as a thorough item description of the piece you just bought that lists the age, origin, and any repairs or touch ups the piece might have gone through while in the dealer's care. And of course, how much you paid for it. If you can get it, another good idea would be to obtain a written guarantee from the seller telling you your antique dining table is authentic. If you choose to buy your antiques via the Internet, you should be certain that you see close up photographs of the item you are considering buying. If you are purchasing an antique dining table, see if the seller can allow you to purchase the item on an approval basis. You can then look over the item, and potentially have an expert do the same. Many dealers will allow this as long as you return an item you don't want within a certain time period in the same condition as you received it. Be careful when purchasing antiques. A little homework will go a long way to making sure you don't end up losing your money.
Article Source: http://www.onlinearticlessite.com
Find out more about one of the best places to purchase an antique dining table by visiting www.beauchampantiques.com.
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