Ruby Lane Advanced Seller Guide

Photography Tips, Best Practices & Success Strategies

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For minimum values, age categories, and essential rules, see the Seller Requirements Guide

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Jewelry Advanced Guide

Photography Best Practices

Professional Photography Tips:

Use a macro lens or macro setting for close-up shots of maker's marks and hallmarks
Photograph marks under good lighting with contrasting backgrounds
Use secondary images to show scale with item on display holder, form or model
Fill the frame with the item so that minimal background shows
Take additional detail shots of any damage, wear, or unique features

Precious Metal Documentation

For unmarked precious metals: Work with a certified appraiser or use professional testing services. Document the testing method used and include test results prominently in your description.

Category-Specific Success Strategies

Antique Jewelry (1926 or earlier)

Research the historical period and include context in descriptions
Highlight authentic period construction techniques
Document any provenance or historical significance

Contemporary Jewelry

Focus on signed designer pieces or luxury brands
Emphasize unique craftsmanship or limited production
Always include manufacture date if known

Artisan Jewelry

Showcase your unique design process
Highlight handmade elements and original techniques
Build your brand story around creativity and craftsmanship
Include your own maker's marks in photos

Success Tip: Take time to properly photograph, test, and document your jewelry. Quality listings with complete information perform better and build buyer confidence.

Dolls Advanced Guide

Authenticity Documentation

Body & Components:

Non-Original Bodies: Must be clearly stated if doll body is not original
Repainting & Touch-ups: MUST disclose any repainting, touch-ups, or restoration of facial features
Replacement Items: Replacement clothes or wigs are acceptable but MUST be disclosed
Original vs. Replacement: Be specific about what is original and what has been replaced

Identifying Repainting & Restoration

Warning Signs of Repainting:

Overly vibrant colors: Lips, cheeks, or eyebrows that look too bright or fresh
Inconsistent aging: Face looks newer than the body or clothes
Paint texture: Visible brush strokes or paint buildup
Color bleeding: Paint that extends beyond original lines
Missing crazing: Face without age-appropriate fine cracks when body shows wear
Modern materials: Acrylic paint over original oils or watercolors

Common Restoration Areas:

Lip color enhancement or complete repainting
Eyebrow touch-ups or redrawing
Cheek blushing or rosy enhancement
Eye detail work (eyelashes, iris enhancement)
Overall facial "freshening" or color restoration

Disclosure Best Practices

What to Document

When in doubt, disclose: Better to over-disclose than under-disclose
Be specific: "Lips appear to have been touched up" vs. just "restored"
Mention extent: "Minor touch-up to left eyebrow" vs. "Face completely repainted"
Note quality: "Professionally restored" vs. "Amateur touch-up visible"
Photo evidence: Include close-up photos showing any restoration work
Use a blacklight (UV light): UV light can help reveal hairline cracks or past repairs

Category-Specific Tips

Antique Dolls (Pre-1930)

Research historical doll-making periods and construction methods
Document age indicators like hand-sewn details, composition materials, and jointing methods
Include historical context about the maker or era
Note any period-appropriate modifications or repairs

Vintage Dolls (1930-2006)

Popular decades each have distinct characteristics
Document original tags, labels, and markings
Include manufacturer information when available
Note any original accessories or matching pieces

Steiff Items

Include information about tags, buttons, or other Steiff identification
Note any missing Steiff identifying features
Document condition of ear buttons and chest tags

Artist Dolls

Emphasize unique craftsmanship and artistic merit
Include artist biography or background when relevant
Document any certificates of authenticity
Highlight one-of-a-kind features

Success Tip: Doll collectors value authenticity and condition above all else. Detailed photos and honest descriptions of any modifications, replacements, or condition issues will build credibility and attract serious collectors.

Collectibles Advanced Guide

Category-Specific Strategies

Antique Collectibles (1926 or earlier)

Research the historical period and manufacturing techniques
Document any provenance or historical significance
Postcards: Take advantage of the lower $10 minimum for antique postcards
Focus on authentic period pieces with clear age indicators

Vintage Collectibles (1926-2006)

The $5 minimum allows for broader inventory options
Popular categories include mid-century modern items, advertising collectibles, and pop culture memorabilia
Include manufacturer information and original packaging when available

Contemporary Collectibles (2006-present)

Focus on artist-made pieces or limited editions
Emphasize unique craftsmanship or artistic merit
Include certificates of authenticity when available
Document any designer signatures or luxury brand markings

Special Categories

Postcards

Antique postcards (100+ years) need only $10 minimum
Include information about postmarks, stamps, condition, and rarity
Note any historical significance of the imagery or destination

Reference Materials

Collector guides, price books, and reference works are welcome
No age restrictions for reference materials
Clearly state condition (new/used) and edition information

Success Tip: Collectors value authenticity, condition, and rarity. Detailed research, honest condition reports, and clear photos of any maker's marks will help you build a reputation with serious collectors.

Art Advanced Guide

Quality Standards

What Qualifies as Ruby Lane Art:

Original paintings, drawings, sculptures
Fine art prints and lithographs
Works appropriate for galleries or museums
Numbered limited editions (under 500 copies)
Artist-signed prints and editions
Works with clear artistic merit and craftsmanship

Authentication & Provenance

Contemporary Art Requirements

Must be authenticated original art OR numbered limited editions signed by the artist
Include any available certificates of authenticity
Document the work's creation and exhibition history

Building Credibility

Research comparable auction results
Include artist biographical information
Document any gallery or museum connections
Provide clear provenance chain when possible

Limited Editions & Prints

Required Documentation

Edition size (e.g., "25/100")
Artist signature location
Printing method and paper type
Publisher information
Certificate of authenticity when available

Success Tip: Art collectors seek authenticity, provenance, and artistic quality. Invest time in researching your pieces, obtaining proper authentication when needed, and providing detailed condition reports.

Furniture & Lighting Advanced Guide

Photography Requirements

Essential Shots:

Multiple angles showing overall design and proportions
Close-up shots of construction details and joinery
Images showing any wear, damage, or restoration
Check underneath furniture, inside drawers, and on the back for hidden marks

Category-Specific Tips

Antique Furniture & Lighting (1926 or earlier)

Research period construction techniques and materials
Document age indicators like joinery methods, hardware styles, and wood types
Include historical context about the style or maker
Note any period-appropriate modifications or repairs

Vintage Furniture & Lighting (1926-2006)

Popular categories include Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco, and Danish Modern pieces
Document original finishes and upholstery when present
Include designer information and manufacturer details
Note any original labels, tags, or documentation

Special Considerations

Lighting Fixtures

Test electrical components and note functionality
Include information about bulb types and wattage
Document all known rewiring or electrical updates

Upholstered Furniture

Describe fabric condition, pattern, and material
Note if upholstery is original or replacement
Document any staining, fading, or wear
Include information about cushion condition and support

Success Tip: Furniture and lighting collectors value design significance, condition, and authenticity. Detailed measurements, honest condition reports, and thorough research into makers and periods will attract serious collectors.

Fashion Advanced Guide

Cleaning Disclosure Requirements

REQUIRED: You must disclose whether clothing:

Has been cleaned (specify dry cleaning or washing)
Has NOT been cleaned since acquisition
Includes any cleaning recommendations or restrictions

Category-Specific Tips

Antique Fashion (1926 or earlier)

Research historical fashion periods and construction methods
Document age indicators like hand-sewn details, button types, and closure methods
Popular categories: Victorian, Edwardian, 1920s flapper styles

Vintage Fashion (1926-2006)

Popular decades: 1930s-1990s each have distinct style characteristics
Document original tags, labels, and size markings
Include designer information when available
Research fashion trends and cultural significance of the era

Condition Assessment

Detailed Condition Reports

Fabric condition: Note any tears, holes, stains, or fading
Construction integrity: Check seams, hems, and structural elements
Hardware condition: Buttons, zippers, snaps, buckles
Alterations: Document any size changes or style modifications
Odors: Note any musty, perfume, or other scents

Size Information

Include vintage size tags when present
Provide actual measurements (essential for online sales)
Note if sizing runs small/large compared to modern standards
Include fit recommendations when possible

Fashion Accessories

Handbags and purses
Scarves and shawls
Belts and sashes
Hats and millinery
Gloves, shoes, and boots
Hair accessories (non-jewelry)

Success Tip: Fashion collectors value authenticity, condition, and historical significance. Accurate measurements are crucial for clothing sales online. Be completely honest about condition, cleaning status, and any alterations.

Glass Advanced Guide

Photography Requirements

Glass Photography Tips:

Multiple angles showing overall design and form
Close-up shots of details, texture, and craftsmanship
Images showing any chips, cracks, or condition issues
Photos in good lighting to show true color and clarity
Photos of transparent glass or crystal items are best taken against a white or light grey background
Use contrasting backgrounds to make etched or subtle marks visible

Category-Specific Tips

Antique Glass (1926 or earlier)

Research historical glassmaking techniques and periods
Document age indicators like pontil marks, mold seams, and tool marks
Popular categories: Art Glass, Pattern Glass, Early American, European art glass

Vintage Glass (1926-2006)

The $5 minimum allows for broader inventory including everyday glassware
Popular categories: Depression Glass, Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian design
Document original labels and manufacturer information

Contemporary Glass (2006-present)

Focus on studio glass artists and unique pieces
Emphasize artistic merit and craftsmanship
Include artist biography and credentials
Highlight one-of-a-kind features or limited production

Glass Types & Techniques

Art Glass: Hand-blown, unique pieces by known artists
Pattern Glass: Pressed glass with repeated designs
Cut Glass: Hand-cut crystal with sharp, precise patterns
Carnival Glass: Iridescent pressed glass popular in early 1900s
Depression Glass: Machine-made colored glass from 1920s-1940s
Studio Glass: Contemporary artist-made pieces

Popular Categories

Antique: Tiffany, Steuben, Lalique, Baccarat, Loetz, American Brilliant Cut Glass
Vintage: Blenko, Murano, Orrefors, Holmegaard, Fire-King
Contemporary: Studio glass artists, Chihuly, Venetian masters

Success Tip: Glass collectors value authenticity, condition, and maker identification. Be completely honest about damage, as even small chips can significantly affect value in the glass collecting market.

Porcelain & Pottery Advanced Guide

Photography Requirements

Ceramic Photography Tips:

Multiple angles showing overall form and decoration
Close-up shots of details, glazing, and craftsmanship
Images showing any chips, cracks, or condition issues
Photos of the bottom/base showing construction and marks
Use good lighting and contrasting backgrounds to make faint marks visible

Category-Specific Tips

Antique Porcelain & Pottery (1926 or earlier)

Research historical ceramic techniques and periods
Document age indicators like paste composition, glazing methods, and decoration styles
Popular categories: Chinese Export, European porcelain, American art pottery, transferware

Vintage Porcelain & Pottery (1926-2006)

The $5 minimum allows for broader inventory including everyday dinnerware
Popular categories: Mid-Century Modern ceramics, Scandinavian pottery, American studio pottery
Document original labels and manufacturer information

Contemporary Porcelain & Pottery (2006-present)

Focus on studio potters and ceramic artists
Emphasize artistic merit and unique craftsmanship
Include artist biography and credentials
Highlight one-of-a-kind glazing techniques or forms

Material Types

Porcelain: Hard, white, translucent ceramic fired at high temperatures
Pottery/Earthenware: Porous ceramic fired at lower temperatures
Stoneware: Dense, durable ceramic fired at high temperatures
Bone China: Porcelain made with bone ash, typically English
Faience/Majolica: Tin-glazed earthenware with colorful decoration

Condition Assessment

Chips: Document size and location of any chips or nicks
Cracks: Note hairline cracks, spider cracks, or major damage
Crazing: Describe fine cracks in the glaze
Staining: Note any discoloration or stains
Scratches: Note utensil marks on dinnerware
Gilt wear: Document condition of gold decoration
Restoration: Identify any professional repairs or touch-ups

Popular Categories

Antique: Meissen, Dresden, Royal Worcester, Spode, American Belleek
Vintage: Fiesta, Russell Wright, Scandinavian ceramics, Japanese pottery
Contemporary: Studio pottery, ceramic artists, designer collaborations

Important Maker Marks

European porcelain: crossed swords (Meissen), anchor (Chelsea), crown (Royal Worcester)
American pottery: Rookwood, Roseville, Van Briggle, Fulper
Asian ceramics: reign marks, artist seals, factory stamps

Success Tip: Ceramic collectors value authenticity, condition, and maker identification. Learn to distinguish between different ceramic types and manufacturing techniques. Accurate condition reporting is crucial.

Silver Advanced Guide

Silver Content Requirements

What Qualifies as Silver Items:

Sterling Silver: (92.5% silver content)
Coin Silver: (90% silver content, American standard pre-1868)
Silver-filled: items with substantial silver content
Silverplate: on a substantial base metal
International silver standards: (800, 835, 900, etc.)

Testing & Verification

If silver content is unmarked, testing may be required
Include testing results in your description when applicable
Be specific about silver content percentage when known
Distinguish between solid silver and plated items

Category-Specific Tips

Antique Silver (1926 or earlier)

Research historical silversmiths and makers
Document age indicators like construction methods and hallmark styles
Include historical context about the maker or style period
Popular categories: American coin silver, English sterling, Continental silver

Vintage Silver (1926-2006)

The $5 minimum allows for smaller items and silverplate pieces
Popular categories: Mid-Century Modern silver, Scandinavian design, American sterling patterns
Document manufacturer information and pattern names
Include original packaging or documentation when available

Contemporary Silver (2006-present)

Focus on studio silversmiths and artisan-made pieces
Emphasize unique craftsmanship and artistic merit
Include artist biography and credentials
Highlight one-of-a-kind techniques or designs

Silver Types & Content

Sterling Silver (925): 92.5% silver, 7.5% other metals
Coin Silver: 90% silver, common in American pieces pre-1868
Britannia Silver (958): 95.8% silver, British high standard
Continental Silver: Various standards (800, 835, 900)
Silver-filled: Thick silver layer over base metal
Silverplate (EPNS): Thin silver layer electroplated over base metal

Condition Assessment

Tarnish: Natural oxidation, can be cleaned
Monograms: Note style, location, and removability
Dents: Document size and location of any damage
Scratches: Distinguish between light surface scratches and deep gouges
Repairs: Identify any soldering, patches, or replacements
Wear: Note areas where silver has worn through on plated items

Hallmarks & Dating

English hallmarks: Date letters, maker's marks, assay office marks, lion passant
American marks: Often just "Sterling" with maker's name
Continental marks: Numeric fineness marks (800, 835, etc.)
Pseudo-marks: Be aware of misleading marks on silver-plated items

Popular Categories

Antique: Paul Revere, Tiffany & Co., Gorham, English Georgian silver
Vintage: Jensen, Reed & Barton, International Silver, Mexican silver
Contemporary: Studio silversmiths, artist-made pieces, designer collaborations

Special Categories

Flatware Sets

Include piece counts and pattern completeness
Note any serving pieces or rare forms
Document condition across the set
Include pattern books or manufacturer documentation

Hollowware

Emphasize craftsmanship and decorative elements
Include capacity measurements for functional pieces
Document any mechanical parts (hinges, springs, etc.)
Note interior condition and any linings

Success Tip: Silver collectors value authenticity, maker identification, and honest condition reporting. Learn to read and interpret hallmarks accurately. Be completely transparent about silver content, condition issues, and any modifications.