Antiques can be a profitable investment

Made for a planter in Natchez, Miss., this mahagony buffet sideboard was crafted in 1810-1820. A Heisey Greek key punch bowl and cups are accented by a portrait of Pres. Andrew Jackson. Along the wall are pictures of American Indians, a confederate sword and an 18th century lamp. Antiques such as these are considered investments for collectors. Pieces like this can be seen during the 40th Annual Antique Show and Sale held in MTSU's Murphy Center this weekend. (T-G Photo by René A. Capley) [Click to enlarge]

Investments come in different sizes and shapes from land parcels to bank accounts, rare coin collections to movie memorabilia.

The important thing, as continually reiterated by financial advisors and accountants alike, including those of governmental occupation, is to be prepared for retirement age, before retirement age.

The availability of collecting full retirement from the government coffers is slim as those retiring continue to live longer, more productive lives. Therefore, it is advisable to have a nest egg on which to rely.

Taking a chapter from those who have gone before, returning to and relying on things from the past can prove to be a lucrative investment.

According to Cotton and Quail, an monthly supplemental to Antique Traders, an antiques' specialty magazine, one should never feel guilty when buying a piece of antiquity.

"The last thing one should do when purchasing a piece of antique furniture or glassware --anything antique -- is feel quilty," freelance writer Dan Anderson said. "Spending money on an antique piece is like investing it in the future. It will only grow in value."

For the 40h year, this weekend launches the Murfreesboro Antique Dealers Association Antique Show held at MTSU's Murphy Center. The names has changed slightly this year and is now simply the Murfreesboro Antique Show.

Sixty-five dealers specializing in antique crystal, linens, china, flatware, books, jewelry, furniture and more from around the world will be showcasing pieces available for purchase.

"Antiques are a wonderful investment in the future," said Don Detwiller, show manager. "While these pieces come into the area once a year, there are antique dealers throughout the counties surrounding Shelbyville that have prime offerings as well."

Though antique dealers in both Murfreesboro and Shelbyville will be open during the show this weekend, dealers who specialize in traveling shows primarily present items during events such as those at Murphy Center.

But how much can one expect to invest and how much will that investment grow?

"Depending on how long the owner keeps a particular piece and, of course, depending on the amount originally paid for that item," Anderson said, "investments in antiques of all varieties can grow significantly with the resell price."

Anderson explained that many people expect an immediate return on an investment. Like the stock market, he said, it is important to watch the trends and now when the best time to buy or sell a piece is.

"Several years ago Martha Stewart began using Jadeite cooking pieces on her television show," he said "Everyone wanted to own a piece and the price of what had always been collected by only those interested in Depression glassware, went through the roof. That was the time to sell Grandma's kitchen pieces. The trend has somewhat decreased now and the market isn't as good."

Furniture pieces are much the same, gaining and losing depending on the decorative style of the market.

"Individuality is a very positive way to decorate a home," said Detwiller. "What these dealers offer at the show gives a visitor a way to decorate in just that way with premium pieces you can't find in many areas."

Mahogany, cherry and walnut woods are commonly found in the Tennessee antique market. Though not as popular with shoppers and collectors, pine and poplar pieces are also available. Depending on the area of the country, the popularity in woods changes by region. Rosewood is a more rare, and therefore more collectable wood, according to antique experts.

Cake stands, lamps, figurines, Transferware in blue, red and mulberry, cranberry Fenton and salt-washed pottery pieces are just a small sampling of the antique pieces available in shops throughout the tri-county area of Bedford, Rutherford and Cannon. Wilson County also boasts antique shops. Most are open seven days a week, though hours may be shorter on Sundays.

"Investing in a piece of furniture requires not only knowledge of the historical time frame but it must also fit within the budget and the home décor where it will be displayed," said Anderson. "If you like the piece, then it is valuable to you."

He recommends careful research and knowledge of the maker or pattern's craftsmanship before purchasing a piece but also warns that sometimes catching a bargain requires making a decision based on personal taste.

The Murfreesboro Antique Show opens Friday and continues through Sunday. Tickets are $6, good for all three days, and available at the door.