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Step 1
Pay attention to the welding or soldering of seams on both the base and the shade. Machined finishes are unlikely on light fixtures from before 1850. A hand weld or solder would be more appropriate.
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Step 2
Take time to inspect the color of the glass of the light fixture or lamp before purchasing. It is important to note whether the tint and hue of the glass is in accordance with the date written on the price tag or antique store label. A little research for the era you are interested in would prevent simple mistakes when antique light shopping.
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Step 3
Be aware of electric lights before electricity. A common mistake among beginning light collectors is the purchase of anachronistic items. An oil lamp should never have a power cord.
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Step 4
Note stickers, labels and signatures on every piece and become familiar with the brands and styles you prefer. If you intend to collect a certain make of oil lamp, table lamp or sconce light be very familiar with the many different labels the company has put out over the years.
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Step 5
Use your nose to spot a fake Bakelite light fixture. Popular before the 1950s, Bakelite plastic has a very distinctive menthol scent. Rub your fingers over the lamp base for 30 seconds and then sniff to see if its Bakelite or just plastic.
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Step 6
Inspect all fixtures and fittings for replacements or signs of a fake. Manufactured aluminum screws would never appear on a Victorian lamp. Check all fixtures and fittings are appropriate for the time period of interest.
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Step 7
Conduct mountains of research before ever leaving your house to buy an antique light fixture. With reproductions flooding the market everyday, knowing what you want and how it supposed to look, feel and cost in advance is key to successful antique buying.
