What’s Currently Happening the Antiques World?

With all the massive changes in our world over the last 15+ months, I thought I’d give some insights into what’s happening in the Antiques Trade.

ANTIQUES FAIRS, SHOPS & MARKETS

The Antiques fairs, shops and markets were closed for most of 2020 and continued to be into 2021 with only a few reopening sporadically. Here in Northern Ireland, some antiques shops opened when they were allowed to as did some of the markets. The St George’s Market in Belfast is a good place to visit on Fridays if you’re looking for antiques. Some of the larger, well established trade fairs are beginning to produce calendars of their events now. However, I feel that the antiques trade have moved more towards selling online.

BUYING ONLINE VIA WEBSITES

Although it’s always nice to be able to see and feel things in the flesh, if you’re buying from a reputable dealer you can shop with confidence. Things to look out for would be in the photos and description of the item that you’re viewing.  Are there enough images of the item? Are you getting a good picture of what the item is including the dimensions? Have any imperfections of the item been mentioned in the description? Does it sound as though the dealer has a good knowledge of the item? Most sites have a Contact Us option, so if you’re unsure of anything, get in touch. A good online dealer should be happy to have a telephone conversation with you too, just ask.

I love being more hands-on but with all the insecurity surrounding trade at the moment, online business via websites is the way to go.

Any good Antiques website would offer a wide variety of categories to choose from. Our independent site offers a broad variety of antiques from 9ct to 18ct gold antique and fine jewellery to vintage costume jewellery and gents accessories.  You will find categories for silver, ceramics, glass, boxes, drinking, military, tribal, Oriental and Asian.

 

DELIVERY

Delivery of your purchase is available across the UK and can also be arranged for overseas buyers. Most antique dealers offer Insured, Signed For delivery either by Royal Mail or a reputable courier service.

CONTACT US!

I’ll cover more on the subject of shopping online for antiques and watch points in my next blog. In the meantime, please feel free to use the Contact Us option on the home page if you have any questions.