Antique hunting is a fascinating hobby that is not only enjoyable, but can also be profitable.
If you have a passion for history and learning how technology has changed over time, then antique hunting could be the perfect fit for you..
Antiquing involves a variety of different items.
You can choose a specific type of antique to learn about and collect, or you can collect a variety of different types.
An antique is described as any item that is over 100 years old.
Tips for Antique Hunting

• Focus your attention on just one category.
  This way you can learn every aspect of this type of antique.
  Identifying an antique can be simpler if you know what to look for.
  When you try to take on too many types, you could get overwhelmed.
  Once you feel comfortable with that particular category, move on to another.
  
• Knowledge truly is power.
  There are many different resources available for people interested in this hobby.
  Make sure the source you use is reliable.
  A museum is an excellent source, as they will have authentic items.
  Find an antique expert that will become a mentor for you and guide you through the process of identifying authentic pieces.
  Visit the library or go online to learn all you can about a specific time period or type of antique.
  
• Find the true value of an antique.
  This is critical in antiquing, especially when you are trying to create a business and gain a profit.
  If you do not know the true value, then you risk spending too much for an antique or selling too low.
  You could miss out on thousands of dollars, if you do not do your research.
  

Tools for Antique Hunting Once you have made the decision to pursue this hobby, you will need the necessary tools to help identify antiques much easier.
The following tools are useful in antiquing:

• Magnifying Glass - Carry this around with you at all times.
  Do not sacrifice quality for price.
  Get one that has a loupe eye glass, similar to the kind that jewelers use.
  These are not that expensive, and are great at magnifying.
  
• Black-Light - A black-light uses ultraviolet light.
  This type of light can reveal flaws that are not visible to the naked eye, such as cracks or repairs.
  You can purchase one in a pocket size and/or on a key chain.
  In order for this light to be effective, you will need to turn out all the lights in the room or take the item to a dark room.
  Turn on the black-light and shine it over the entire item.
  You will want to search every part of the item.
  A black-light will expose modern paints and glues, which will tell you if there have been repairs.
  Repairs will decrease the value of an item significantly.
  
• Digital Camera - This type of camera will be useful when you are in doubt of an item's authenticity.
  You can take pictures of all areas of the item that will help you in your research.
  Make sure the camera has a built in flash, as you will need to be able to take picture in dark rooms.
  Make sure the camera also has a zoom feature, which will be helpful when trying to identify manufacturer emblems
• GPS Navigation Device - This can now be found on many mobile phones.
  Travel is one aspect that tends to be a constant in antiquing.
  Whether you travel locally or out of town, a GPS can save you hours of time trying to find places.
  

Whether you are intending on antiquing as a hobby or as a business, you will want to learn everything you can about antique hunting.
Supply yourself with the knowledge and tools to ensure you are a success.