How can I tell if an antique has been restored or altered?

Start with a close look in good light. On furniture, check for mismatched wood color inside drawers and on backs, new screws or nails, fresh tool marks, extra holes where hardware was changed, and a finish that looks too uniform or shiny for the age. Compare the wear on the piece to how it would naturally be used.

For ceramics and glass, look for areas with a different sheen or color, and many dealers use a blacklight because repairs often glow differently than the original surface. On paintings, a blacklight can also reveal inpainting. On metalwork, look for solder lines or replaced parts that do not match.

None of these checks are foolproof, and some restorations are very skilled. If you are paying a significant amount, ask the seller directly about repairs, get the answer in writing, and consider having a specialist or appraiser examine the item first.