Table of Contents
Can you tell how old a lamp is by the plug?
In an electric lamp, the cord often reveals the clue to the lamp’s age, unless the cord has been replaced. Inspect the cord; if it looks old, the lamp probably is as well. The metal prongs on the plug are likely the same size, rather than one end that is larger than the other.
How do I identify my lamp maker?
Lamp Maker’s Mark Antique Lamp Supply recommends picking up the lamp and looking for a manufacturer’s symbol, name or date stamp embedded into the base. Also look on the lighting fixture itself; sometimes, the manufacturer includes a sticker that includes the name, or date of manufacture.
How do you know if a lamp is valuable?
Lamps are often more valuable when left in an original condition with most or all the original parts. Lightly scratch the underside of the lamp surface to determine the type of material it is made from. Some lamps may appear to be made of metal, but they might also be painted to look and feel just like metal.
How do I know if my oil lamp is valuable?
How Can You Tell if an Oil Lamp Is Antique?
- Use a Blacklight. Hold a blacklight next to the lamp in a dark room.
- Examine the Hardware.
- Check for Plaster.
- Antique Lamp Styles.
- Lamp Burner Types.
- Colors of Antique Oil Lamps.
- Oil Lamp Maker’s Marks.
- Oil Lamp Patent Numbers and Dates.
How do I know if my antique lamp is valuable?
Are old light fixtures worth anything?
Antique light fixtures are a valuable and inspirational decorative accent in a real estate investment. The historical significance and unique styling associated with antique lighting fixtures make them a luxurious element in a home design.
How do I know if my old lamp is valuable?
Are oil lamps worth any money?
Market prices for oil lamps have generally decreased, but you will still realize a profit. It will sell for about $200 —fifteen years ago it would have readily sold for $600.
How can you tell if a lamp is valuable?
How can you tell if a lamp is an antique?
Antique lamps should feature hand-painted designs, so look for brush marks. If the work is perfectly smooth, it might be a decal. You can also identify a decal by touch — decals are smooth, while paint feels textured. Generally, the presence of decals indicates a modern reproduction rather than an antique.
How to determine the year a table lamp was manufactured?
Lamps from that time period may be made from lower-quality metals that would then be painted or gilded. One of the first places to look for a date stamp or the maker’s hallmark begins with an examination of the base of the lamp.
Where can I find the age of a lamp?
You can find information at your local library or even online (see Resources). Determine the age of the lamp. Most lamps will have markings on the bottom of the lamp telling you the date with letters, numbers or certain types of graphics. Usually these graphics are logos that pertain to the manufacturer.
How are electrical cords different in antique lamps?
The electrical cords of antique electric lamps had prongs which were the same size, unlike modern plugs which have one prong larger than the other. If a plug is polarized, it will have one plug larger than the other.