 BEFORE PHOTO This photo shows the sections that were restored with the ap- plied paint or stain removed from the restored sections. |  AFTER PHOTO This photo shows the same artifacts the sections that were re- stored repainted but still retaining the crack line where the re- stored sections joins the genuine section of the artifacts. |
Gorgets from My Private Collection
These gorgets originate from the Alabama counties of Lauderdale, Jackson, and Colbert, as well as Hardin County, Tennessee. They represent an assortment that I acquired over the years, now part of my private collection.
In the “Before” photograph, several gorgets show areas of restoration. Unfortunately, when I purchased them, I was never informed of this restoration work. Over time, I learned that many dealers and collectors were using restoration to artificially enhance value. Thankfully, one of the nation’s top authenticators taught me reliable methods for detecting restoration.
One method is to dip a Q-tip into acetone (which does not harm the patina of a genuine artifact) and rub it gently along the edges of the piece. If paint or stain appears on the Q-tip, that is a strong indicator to investigate further. Another method is to lightly tap the artifact’s edges against the glass of a display case; a change in tone can also reveal restoration work.
When I discovered restoration on these gorgets, I was furious. I contacted the sellers, only to hear excuses such as, “Oh, I had no idea,” or, “That was two years ago, sorry but I can’t help you.” For years, I displayed the gorgets as shown in the “Before” images, sharing the story with fellow collectors.
Recently, however, I realized I no longer enjoyed seeing them on my wall. That was when I reached out to Lisa and Dennis Bushey, asking if they could paint over the restored areas but leave the visible crack lines where the original material joined the restoration. Their reply was, “Absolutely, we can.”
Now, as you can see in the finished product, the gorgets have been given new life. I can proudly frame them, hang them on my wall, and enjoy them from across the room. Most importantly, when the time comes to sell them—or after my death—the true story of these artifacts will remain preserved. Future owners will not be misled or sold restored relics without full disclosure.