- 1). Consider the pattern and how the lamp is constructed. Look at the casting of the lamp base. The Tiffany shades and bases were originally sold separately. Bronze, glass and pottery were used in some lamp base construction. The model of a base, the color of the glass and the type of glass will influence the price of the lamp.
- 2). Evaluate the glass used. Tiffany created a broad range of textures. Over a 20-year period, he patented four types of glass. Tiffany was a painter, so he loved color and the effect of light on color. He developed bold colors and opalescent sheens. Collectors will look at the same lampshade pattern design and determine two different values depending on whether the glass is a very pale or a very vibrant color. Shades done in vibrant colors might be worth twice as much as shades done in pale colors.
- 3). Assess the design of the lampshade. Tiffany was in awe of nature and loved flowers. Although he created other designs, the majority of shades he designed were floral. The dragonfly design is also characteristic of Tiffany's lamps.
- 4). Look for the company name. Original pieces carry the company's name and possibly a reference number. Some pieces may even have original paper labels. Tiffany signatures may be found pressed into the metal rim of a lamp's shade. Model numbers were assigned to each lamp and shade to assist in filling orders.
- 5). Read as much as you can on the subject. Look at museum catalogs. Locate museums that have Tiffany lamps and visit them to examine the lamps.
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