Antique Appraisal Day 2012
Hundreds of people took pictures off walls, items out of cabinets, unpacked boxes or unwrapped items stored away for years in the back of their closets. They brought them, as well as their “high hopes,” to ARC’s Antique Appraisal Day held at the Crowne Plaza on January 21st. Several people were pleasantly surprised to learn they had items of considerable value and others were absolutely shocked! One gentleman’s 18K gold ring with a 3 caret round cut diamond was valued at $40,000, and an exquisite diamond brooch comprised of 5.6 carets was valued at $22,500. Several sketches from the 1800’s were valued at $5,000 each. Many items from Grandparents or Great-Aunts or Uncles proved to be very valuable if not monetarily, at least sentimentally. A unique ceramic statue depicting a family of Boars was purchased in the Serengeti desert for $100. This item turned out to be worth $800!
Not only is it fun to share in everyone’s excitement, it is a pleasure to hear where people obtained their items. A story of heirlooms being handed down from generation to generation always gets the crowd talking among themselves. The biggest “wow” factor happens when someone tells how they found their item at a garage sale for a few dollars and then it turns out to be worth ten times that. Some smile or even laugh when that hundred dollar item ends up only having sentimental value.
Once again, we thank the generosity of the Crowne Plaza for sponsoring this event and providing spacious accommodations and refreshments. Also, very special thanks go to the appraisers whose knowledge and expertise covered an incredible range of items. Appraisers included the charming Peter Curran from the Antique Road Show and Henry Eckert from Naples. Everyone was pleased that Jane de Lisser, from Ft Myers, returned again this year. ARC was also thrilled to be able to welcome Brad & Colbi Congress of Bradley’s Jewelry to review a wide range of estate jewelry. New to our event this year was watch expert Tony Genovese who has over forty years experience in fine watches, including Rolex. We deeply appreciate everyone’s time and energy. These efforts helped raise over $4,000 for ARC’s special medical needs program!
ARC wishes to thank another one of its loyal volunteers. Each year, Jim Morris volunteers his time and talent to entertain everyone at the Lights of Love Event.
