Authentication & How I Describe Items

What I Do

• Research each piece -- maker, period, style, and likely use.
• Compare with known examples -- books, trusted auction records, and reference material when available.
• Check marks and details -- signatures, hallmarks, labels, and construction.
• Describe condition honestly -- including wear, repairs, and flaws I can see.
• Use careful language -- I avoid making claims I cannot reasonably support.

What I Don't Do

I'm a collector and seller, not a laboratory or grading service. That means:

• I do not perform lab testing on metals, gemstones, or materials.
• I do not offer formal grading or restoration services.
• I do not guarantee investment value or future resale prices.

If an item has been professionally authenticated or graded by a third party, I will say who did the work when that information is available.

Signatures, Autographs & Attributions

For signed or attributed items, I try to be especially clear:

• If there is third-party authentication, I will state that in the description.
• If there is no third-party opinion, I describe the signature and context as clearly as I can and base my opinion on comparison and experience.
• When something is uncertain, I use phrases like "in the style of","appears to be", or "attributed to" instead of stating it as a fact.

Vintage & Antique Items

Most pieces on Kollect-It are vintage or antique, which means:

• Normal age, wear, and patina should be expected.
• I try to photograph and describe noticeable issues, but small flaws may still be present.
• Items are sold as described, based on the information reasonably available at the time of listing.

If I Get Something Wrong

If you believe a listing is materially inaccurate, please contact me. I will review your information and any supporting documentation. If I've made a meaningful error in description, I will work with you to make it right.

My goal is long-term trust, not one-time sales.