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FAIR Buyer Preparation Guide

How to Measure a Weighted Silver Compote Pair for Appraisal

For owners and advisors choosing an appraisal route.

To measure a weighted silver compote pair for appraisal, label the objects A and B, then record overall height, bowl diameter, and foot diameter for each one separately. FAIR uses those side-by-side numbers with marks and photos to decide whether the file is a true pair, near match, or mismatch review.

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Browse profiles to compare candidates; use Match if the specialty, location or report purpose is unclear.

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How to Measure a Weighted Silver Compote Pair for Appraisal - FAIR online appraisal guide illustration
Decision guide

When checklist work prevents rework

Checklist pages are meant to improve the intake file. Better photos and notes help the appraiser decide scope, risk, and whether a formal report is justified.

When checklist work prevents rework
Situation Formal appraisal? Why it matters
You are still identifying the object Prepare first Photos, measurements, marks, condition notes, and provenance can change the next step.
The item may be valuable or disputed Often yes Condition, authenticity, completeness, and market evidence can materially affect value.
You only need better intake photos Not yet Use the checklist before asking for a quote so the appraiser can scope accurately.
Next step

Turn the guide into a shortlist.

Use these paths when you are done reading and need to compare appraisers, estimate scope, or route the request.

Search the FAIR directoryCompare public profile signals, service area, specialty fit, and fee transparency before outreach.Ask for a FAIR matchUse Match when the category, location, report purpose, or specialist boundary is unclear.Estimate appraisal costOrganize item count, report purpose, inspection needs, and timing before asking for a quote.

Measure each compote separately

Do not average the pair into one description. Small differences in height, bowl spread, or foot size can change how the appraisal is scoped.

  • Label the objects compote A and compote B before measuring.
  • Use the same unit and method for both pieces.
  • Measure on a flat surface with the compotes standing naturally.

Compare overall height

Height is often the first mismatch signal because similar bowls can have different stems, repairs, or pushed feet.

  • Measure from the table to the top rim or highest fixed point on compote A.
  • Repeat the same method for compote B.
  • If one piece rocks, leans, or has a damaged rim, note that next to the number.

Compare bowl diameter

Bowl diameter helps separate a true pair from two similar-looking compotes made in different sizes.

  • Measure straight across the widest outside edge of each bowl opening.
  • Do not measure only the inner well if the rim flares outward.
  • If the rim is scalloped or shaped, state how you measured it.

Compare foot diameter

The foot can show mismatch evidence even when the bowls look close. Measure the actual outer spread of the foot, not an insert.

  • Measure the full foot diameter on each compote from outer edge to outer edge.
  • Do not count felt pads, cork discs, or inner support rings as the full base.
  • If one foot is oval, dented, or pushed, say so plainly.

Send the numbers as a simple table

A short comparison table is clearer than measurements scattered across emails or texts.

  • Use columns for object label, height, bowl diameter, foot diameter, hallmark wording, and condition notes.
  • Add a pair-status note such as believed exact pair, near match, or mismatch suspected.
  • Attach side-by-side photos, underside photos, hallmark close-ups, and stem and foot detail photos.

Request the quote after the packet is complete

The goal is not to prove the pair yourself. The goal is to give FAIR enough organized evidence to quote the right kind of silver review.

  • Send the table, side-by-side photos, marks, weighted wording, and intended use together.
  • Do not use household weight as a substitute for the three measurements.
  • State whether the appraisal is for insurance, estate, probate, donation planning, sale review, divorce, or general silver triage.

Common questions

What three measurements does FAIR want for a weighted silver compote pair?

FAIR wants overall height, bowl diameter, and foot diameter for each compote, measured separately and shown side by side.

Why are height differences important in a compote pair?

A height difference can point to a different stem build, repair, pushed foot, or true size mismatch even when the bowls look similar.

How should I measure bowl diameter on a flared or scalloped rim?

Measure the widest practical span across the opening and note the method if the rim shape is irregular.

Should foot diameter include the felt pad under the base?

No. Measure the outer spread of the foot itself, not just the felt pad, cork disc, or inner insert.

Are measurements enough to prove a compote pair is original?

No. FAIR also needs marks, weighted wording, monograms, construction photos, and condition notes. Measurements are the first comparison layer.

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  • FAIR does not certify competence or guarantee availability.
  • Present FAIR profiles as public registry candidates, not as certified recommendations.
  • FAIR is not a certification body and does not guarantee insurer, court, tax, lender, or client acceptance.
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