All About Antiques

Authentic antique keys are identified by their material (usually hand-forged iron or brass), specific bit patterns designed for warded or lever locks, and the shape of the bow (handle). Valuable examples often date from the 18th or 19th centuries, feature intricate skeleton key designs, or bear stamped maker marks like “Yale” or “Corbin” from the…

Identifying antique hand planes and saws comes down to three things: the maker’s mark, the casting style, and the patent date stamped into the metal. Stanley planes cast before 1902 carry distinct frog designs that differ from later models. Disston saws can be dated by their medallion style and handle wood. Reading these physical details…

Gold hallmarks indicate purity on a 24-part scale: 10K is 41.7% pure gold, 14K is 58.3%, and 18K is 75%. These stamps—along with maker’s marks and assay symbols—are the fastest way to confirm whether a piece is solid gold or merely plated. Any mark reading GP, GF, or HGE means plated, not solid.

You can generally date antique ceramic pitchers by analyzing the specific silhouette of the handle. Scrolled or high-arching handles with thumb spurs typically indicate mid-19th century Victorian styles (c. 1840-1860s), while angular, bamboo-style handles point directly to the Aesthetic Movement (1870s-1880s). A handle featuring organic, flowing “whiplash” curves that melt into the body suggests Art…