Wedgwood has been producing high-quality china since 1759. During this time many hundreds of patterns were created, some with limited production and some lasting generations. Valuing Wedgwood china is not easy, especially since quite a few talented imitators selling "Wedgewood China" for numerous patters over a long period of time. Professional antique dealers specializing in fine china can provide authoritative valuing. However, it is possible to get a rough estimate of your Wedgewood china based on a few key factors.
Examine the bottom of your Wedgwood china; you should see a maker's mark. All authentic Wedgwood pieces, regardless of pattern or age, will have a mark. Depending on the age of your piece, the mark may be hard to read and a magnifying glass may be necessary. The mark your piece has can tell you a lot about the age and even the quality of your china.
Research the value of Wedgwood pieces with the same pattern and of a similar age as yours. True valuation depends on the quality of your piece. However, knowing the value of similar pieces will allow you to benchmark your own piece.
Attempt to discover as much as you can about the history of your Wedgwood china. Where and how you got your china has a huge impact on what you know about the life of your piece. Papers of authentication or original purchase tell you exactly where and when the piece was made. If you do not have this type of documentation, the Wedgwood Museum is a good resource on the general history of the company and on popular patterns.
Contact an appraiser for an official valuation, especially if you wish to know the value of your Wedgwood china for insurance purposes. The International Society of Appraisers has a member directory of certified appraisers located throughout the country. Appraisers may want photographs of your china as well as photocopies of any related documentation.
Things You'll Need:
- Magnifying glass
- Papers of authentication/original purchase
- Photographs of the china
Warnings:
- Do not send your china to an appraiser. Unless you are meeting with an appraiser in person, you should only send photographs and photocopies of any documents, never the originals.
References
Resources
Warnings
- Do not send your china to an appraiser. Unless you are meeting with an appraiser in person, you should only send photographs and photocopies of any documents, never the originals.
Writer Bio
Based in Seattle, Antonia Lawrence has been writing and editing since 2007. Lawrence has worked and traveled extensively in both Europe and Asia. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and French language from Agnes Scott College and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Florida.
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