FAQs
Value of Antique Lamps and Lighting
- Rarity: If the lamp is rare — one of a small number in existence or a design not seen on other lamps of the same type — it will have a higher value.
- Aesthetics: A visually stunning lamp usually has precise individual elements that work together seamlessly for a well-balanced look.
How do I find the manufacturer of my vintage lamp? ›
Typically, these marks are on the base of the lamp, but sometimes there are also stickers on the light fixing itself that will include a name or date or manufacturer. These marks reveal a lot and can help you check other details about a specific lamp - such as whether it's likely that the shade has been replaced.
How can you tell a vintage floor lamp? ›
You can look for a manufacturer's name, symbol, or date stamp on the lamp's base. If there is a felt covering, you may need to lift it, and you may need to use a magnifying glass, but you should be able to find writing or drawings on the base of the lamp.
What makes a lamp look expensive? ›
A solid shade complements a base with intricate details, colors or finishes, while a simple bottom can shoulder a patterned shade, advises McCauley. Consider, too, how a shade will look lit. “A blue shade over a bulb with a yellowy, 'warm white' temperature, will look more green,” she said.
How to price a vintage lamp? ›
Look for lamps that are similar to yours and see how much they sold for. This will give you an idea of what your lamp is worth. You can also check online auction sites or antique stores to see how much similar lamps are being sold for. This will help you determine the current market value of your lamp.
What is considered a vintage lamp? ›
Understanding the Definition of 'Vintage'
'Vintage' floor lamps are items that show the style of a certain period, usually between 20 to 99 years old. These items represent the skill and style of their era, not just old objects but valued parts of history and art.
Should vintage lamps be rewired? ›
Wiring can become brittle or decayed over time, so it's never a bad idea to replace your lamp cord. Light fixtures that were manufactured in another country may have undersized wiring, and you can fix this issue by rewiring or lowering the light bulb wattage instead.
How do I find the model number of my lamp? ›
The answer / solution to the problem / question documented in this article. To locate the the serial number of the lamp to determine the age or type of lamp, you will have to physically remove the lamp from the lamp housing module. Etched on the lamp is type and serial number.
What is a fitter on a globe? ›
The fitter is the outer diameter of the lip which is inserted into the fixture's shade holder. This will measure a little less than the fitter size so it can fit into the shade holder of the same measurement.
What is a glass fitter? ›
As a glass installer, also known as a glazier, your duties are to cut windows to fit within frames, replace broken windows, and install new windows for renovations or construction projects. Your responsibilities include ensuring that a window product fits correctly and works efficiently for customers.
A: spider refers to the cross bar configuration at the top of the shade, which requires a harp fixture rising from the base of the bulb to the top, upon which a screw-on finial holds the whole shade together.
How old does a lamp have to be to be considered antique? ›
Antiques are items which must be at least 100 years old. That means, as of the date of this posting, an antique item was made on or before April of 1918.
Do old lamps have asbestos? ›
Lamps and light bulbs also utilized asbestos as an insulating agent, similar to many other appliances. Asbestos was used as an insulated coating and several elements within the lamp or bulb, such as some in-bulb mountants or insulators and asbestos-coated foil.
Is it safe to use a 50 year old lamp? ›
It's always a good rule of thumb to have your vintage lamp inspected by a professional so you can rest assured that its safe. And if you do find that the wiring isn't good on a piece, it's fairly inexpensive to have it rewired – and the professional that inspected it can probably do that for you.
What is the best way to sell vintage lamps? ›
The Best Way to Sell Vintage Lamps Online
Run an Ecwid store on your own website, on popular social media platforms, or through marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. Open your very own Instant Site in just a few minutes or simply add a “Buy Now” button to your blog.
How do I know if my light fixture is antique? ›
Antique lighting is over a hundred years old, while vintage light fixtures are at least 20 years old. Anything from before the early 19th century would now be considered antique, whether you're searching for chandeliers from Versailles or out-of-print nickels to start your coin collection.