One of the easiest ways to spot well-made antique furniture is by looking at how it’s put together.
The details are often hidden — but they matter most.
Dovetail Joints
Hand-cut dovetail joints are a hallmark of older craftsmanship. They won’t be perfectly uniform — slight variation shows they were shaped by hand.
Machine-made dovetails tend to look too precise.
Mortise & Tenon
This classic joint method was used for sturdy construction. If a chair or table has survived decades, chances are it was built this way.
Solid Wood vs Veneer
Many antique pieces use solid wood construction. Veneer was also used historically, but it should feel thick and well-adhered — not peeling or paper-thin.
Quality construction means longevity.
And longevity is what defines a true antique.
