Antique Dealer Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Buys and sells antiques such as furniture, art, jewellery and china. May also clean, restore and value antiques.
What does a Antique Dealer do?
An Antique Dealer identifies, buys and sells older or collectible items such as furniture, art, jewellery and china. The work can also involve examining an item's condition and authenticity, estimating its value, and cleaning or restoring it before sale.
How to become a Antique Dealer in South Africa
- Build detailed knowledge of antiques, including furniture, art, jewellery and china.
- Develop practical skills in assessing condition, estimating value and identifying items that may be suitable for resale.
- Learn careful cleaning and restoration techniques appropriate to different antique materials.
- Gain experience buying and selling antiques and communicating their condition and value clearly to customers.
- Check with SAQA, relevant training providers and industry organisations for any current courses or training options that may be useful.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
There may be no single universal qualification pathway for becoming an Antique Dealer. Education and practical learning can support preparation, while knowledge of antiques, valuation, restoration and buying and selling is central to the work. Confirm current training and business-related requirements with appropriate South African providers or official bodies.
Useful school subjects
- History
- Business Studies
- Visual Arts
Skills that may help
- Knowledge of antiques and collectible items
- Buying and selling
- Valuation and price assessment
- Observation and attention to detail
- Cleaning and restoration
- Understanding condition and materials
- Customer communication