Terms, condition grades, and valuation factors explained
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Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor
Standard appraisal scale indicating wear and restoration level
Excellent: Original finish, tight joints, minor wear only
Good: Some wear, minor repairs, original components
Fair: Significant wear, major repairs, some replacements
Poor: Heavy damage, major restoration, missing parts
18th-century English furniture design
Named after Thomas Chippendale, characterized by cabriole legs and dentil molding
Key Valuation Factors:
Gilded brass decorative elements
18th-19th century decorative technique using gold-coated brass
What Adds Value:
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When you see an Antiques Roadshow appraisal, the expert evaluates several key areas before giving a value range.
Every appraiser uses the same basic condition grades: Excellent, Good, Fair, and Poor. These aren't just labels—they're shorthand communication tools that immediately tell other experts what to expect. An Excellent chair might sell at auction; the same chair in Poor condition would likely be sold for parts or restoration.
Four main factors influence every antique's value. Rarity determines how many exist. Condition shows how much original material remains. Provenance adds story value—documents, famous owners, historical events. Market demand fluctuates with trends and collector interest.Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many new collectors focus too much on age. A 200-year-old piece in Poor condition may be worth less than a 50-year-old piece in Excellent condition. Also, don't assume that expensive-looking reproductions are valuable. The market has seen sophisticated reproductions of many famous pieces.
A Spode Blue Willow tureen from 1820 sold for $450 at auction in Excellent condition. The same pattern in Fair condition might sell for $75. The difference? Complete restoration history and original paint versus heavy restoration work.
A Tiffany silver flatware set with original case and documentation can command premium prices. Without provenance, even excellent condition pieces may be worth 30-50% less than attributed sets.
Start with a category that matches what you're researching. Browse the terms to understand the vocabulary. Use the search function to find specific concepts. Bookmark terms you want to remember. This glossary is designed to grow—new categories and terms are added regularly.
Glossary Version 2.1 • Updated November 2026