Fine art, valuable paintings, rare glass and intricate silverwork, even a restored Jeep –  they have all made their way to Thomaston Place Auction Galleries appraisal events.

Some owners are pleasantly surprised by the value of the item they bring in. Others are disappointed; but everybody who brings something to the event leaves with a better understanding of the background of a prized possession.

“We take our time and make sure people understand the culture, the origins of the piece and where it was made,” said John Bottero, Vice President of Thomaston Place. “We try to talk about the aspects that make it saleable and build the story of the piece.”

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries will be at St. Andrews Village June 19 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. for an Antiques Appraisal Fair. Kaja Veilleux, President of Thomaston Place, will provide instant onsite appraisals in the Pinkham Dining Room at St. Andrews Village. Bottero is also expected to be present.

There will be a $10 suggested donation per item or $25 for three items. Thomaston Place Auction Galleries will donate their services for the event and all proceeds will benefit the Lincoln County Animal Shelter.

“We originated the idea of offering free appraisals every week at our gallery over 25 years ago,” Veilleux said. “Now, we also enjoy taking this service on the road to support the program and fundraising efforts of community-based groups throughout Maine.”

Participants are encouraged to bring any items they wish, but if something is too large to be safely transported, detailed photos may be used.

Recently, the market has responded well to rare books, rare glass, silver items and jewelry, particularly by jewelers with a reputation for the highest level of craftsmanship like Tiffany & Co., or Cartier, said Bottero.

Cultural shifts, including fewer people in transition due to a slow housing market and a decline in the tradition of formal dining, as well as an overall trend toward more casual lifestyles, have resulted in demand changes for items such as formal furniture and fine china.

In general, however, Bottero said condition and rarity are key to long-term retained value in the antique business.

“Collectors are aggressively seeking the finest examples of all categories of objects,” said Bottero.

For more information, please call St. Andrews Village at 633-0920. St. Andrews Village is located in Boothbay Harbor at the end of Emery Lane off Route 27, just south of Boothbay Region High School.