I know the frustration of trying to find a gift for somebody who seems to have everything. What finally helped me take the angst out of gift buying was starting to think outside the box. Since then, it seems to be easier to find something that my loved one will like, whatever the occasion. These days, I look in unusual places for gift ideas. Instead of retail shops, I see what is happening at local auction houses. I may look into getting my loved one something they've expressed an interest in recently, like taking guitar lessons. I may even surprise my friend with a visit from a chef who prepares a special meal just for him or her. If you have the gift buying blues, let me help. I'll provide some tips on how to get clues for wonderful presents that will delight and amaze your loved ones.
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Gift Buying: Thinking Outside the Box
A Quick Guide To UV Light & Postage Stamps
Peggy Lee
Postage stamp collecting has been done for multiple generations and continues to provide a fun way to capture stamps from all around the world. Whether you've built a collection yourself or had one passed down from a family member, the true way to find your collection's value is through a postage stamp collection appraisal.
The condition of the stamps will help determine a lot of value and UV lights can create a lot of differences in value. Check out this quick guide to learn about UV lights and the ways the light can impact stamps.
Yellowed Edges
Many stamps feature a lot of white designs, especially around the borders. When UV lights shine on white paper, the impact over time can cause the white to turn yellow. The dis-colorization can lead to an aged yellow look much like the way old newspapers look if they were left in the sun for years.
When you store stamps, keep the items in mint condition through the use of protective boxes and cases. Some albums will also include UV protection through the protective layers. If you seek a postage stamp collection quote, the yellow factor will come into play and could cause the final value to decrease.
Faded Colors
When postage stamps feature high-quality color pictures, you want the images to stand out among others. Faded colors can cause stamps to lose value. The small details in an image could become hard to see. Keep your stamps out of natural sunlight to ensure they stay in mint condition.
If you keep stamps in portfolios and rooms with minimal natural light, then your appraisal can ensure a higher value. If you have a specific room for your stamps, then consider blackout shades to keep the natural light out. Rely on artificial lights without the UV components to keep items safe.
Curled Sides & Glue Issues
UV light is often associated with the heat from the sun as well. The mixture of UV light and heat can cause the sides of stamps to curl up. Excessive heat from natural sunlight could also cause issues with the stamp glue. A stamp could become loose and not stick like it originally did. The problem could occur for classic stamps along with newer sticker-style stamps.
Keep the stamps in a climate-controlled room to help reduce the impact and ensure a stamp remains in mint condition.
Once you know about UV light, you can ensure your appraisal goes smoothly and you do not need to worry about excessive damage to your stamps.
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