Tiffany lamps hold their value in a unique way when compared to other housewares, and they remain as in-demand today as they were a generation ago. Because they were so in demand, companies across the globe began making their own Tiffany-like lamps and glass houseware pieces, so spotting the difference between a replica and the real thing can be pretty difficult. Some of these Tiffany-like lamps pay attention to nearly every detail, but we at Heritage Estate Sales want to help you to pick out those little discrepancies and ensure you’re getting yourself a true Tiffany lamp.
A few things to look for when searching for a genuine Tiffany lamp are:
- Spot the bronze – In almost all instances, Tiffany lamps are crafted with a base made from bronze, and in a few very rare occasions, ceramic art pottery. This is one of the simplest ways to spot a fake, as the replica lamps will often use brass, zinc, wood, or plastic, which are all materials that Tiffany never used.
- Check your glass – Tiffany lamps only use the most high quality glass, and glass that looks unevenly colored or less than the best is a sure sign that you’re not looking at a genuine Tiffany lamp. Two easy to see signs to look for is color changing glass and confetti glass, as both are high-end techniques Tiffany used frequently in creating their lamps.
- Search for a stamp – Tiffany lamps are stamped either on the base or on the glass, and it’s important to remember the distinction between Tiffany & Co and Tiffany Studios New York. Tiffany & Co is the jewelry manufacturer, and a fake stamp sometimes used by those creating replicas, while all genuine Tiffany lamps will be stamped with a Tiffany Studios New York stamp to show it was made by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
- Listen for the rattle – If you’re able, gently knock on the top of the lamp shade and listen for a rattle. If you hear a rattle, chances are, you’re not working with real Tiffany. The wax used to hold the glass pieces together in a Tiffany lamp should be dry and solid, meaning the lamp shade will not rattle when jostled.
While these are just a few of the ways to determine if you’re working with a genuine Tiffany lamp, there are other things you can look out for as well. To learn more about investing in true Tiffany, check us out at Heritage Estate Sales today.