What Are Antique Metals?

Antique metals are historical artifacts and objects crafted from various metal alloys, valued for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and material composition. At Arco antique metals, we specialize in authenticating and preserving these timeless pieces that connect us to our cultural heritage through their unique metallurgical properties and artistic merit.

Types of Antique Metals We Specialize In:

• Historical Artifacts:
  These include religious icons, ceremonial objects, and archaeological finds dating back centuries, made from bronze, brass, or precious metals. Each piece tells a story through its alloy composition and manufacturing techniques.
• Decorative Metalwork:
  From ornate Victorian brass fixtures to Art Deco bronze sculptures, we authenticate decorative pieces that showcase the metalworking traditions of their periods, examining patina development and construction methods.

Are All Old Metal Objects Valuable?

Not all aged metal objects are equally valuable. Several factors determine an antique metal's worth:
Age alone doesn't guarantee value - craftsmanship, rarity, condition, and provenance are equally important in determining an antique metal's significance.

Key Authentication Considerations

• Examination of patina and wear patterns consistent with age
• Analysis of construction techniques (hand-forged vs. modern manufacturing)
• Testing metal composition to verify period-appropriate alloys

Arco antique metals as Your Trusted Authentication Service

With decades of experience in the antique metals trade, Arco antique metals has established itself as a leader in authentication, conservation, and acquisition of fine antique metal objects. Our services bridge the gap between historical preservation and modern collecting, using both traditional expertise and cutting-edge technology.

Our Authentication Process:

• Visual Examination:
  Our experts begin with a thorough visual assessment under magnification to examine craftsmanship details, surface characteristics, and aging patterns.
• Material Analysis:
  We employ non-destructive testing methods including X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for precise metal composition analysis without damaging your valuable artifacts.

Why Choose Arco antique metals?

• Three generations of expertise in antique metal authentication
• Recognized authority consulted by museums and collectors worldwide
• State-of-the-art laboratory with non-destructive testing equipment
• ICCROM-trained conservators on staff
• Comprehensive documentation for insurance and legal purposes
• Specialists in both Eastern and Western metalworking traditions
• Detailed reports with clear, actionable findings
• Competitive pricing with various service levels