Unless you’re an expert in vintage and antique pieces (think Antiques Roadshow), it’s impossible to know everything about the treasures you come across while secondhand shopping. While I have a solid knowledge of antiques, I rely heavily on Google Images (formerly known as Google Image Search or Google Lens) to help identify my finds—and you should too!
Did you know that most thrift stores use Google Images to price their items? Believe me, I’ve asked them! If they rely on it, so should you.
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What is Google Images
Google Images is a tool within the Google app that allows users to search for images online. It finds:
- Similar images
- Websites featuring the image
- Related images
- Pricing estimates from online marketplaces
To refine your search, you can add keywords such as the brand, artist, or item description.
When Should I use Google Images
Use Google Images when you want to:
- Identify the source of an image
- Learn more about an item, such as its model, year, or history
- Fact-check an image before making a purchase
- Find similar items, whether it’s clothing, furniture, or home decor
- Estimate the value of an item.
How to Use Google Images for Thrift Shopping
Using Google Images is easy! Just follow these steps:
- Open Google in your browser or the Google app on your smartphone.
- Tap the camera icon in the search bar.
3. Take a photo of the item or select an image from your camera roll. You can also paste an image link.
4. Tap “Search” and watch the results appear!
Practical Uses of Google Images While Secondhand Shopping
1. Understanding the Value of an Item
Google Images can show you what an item is selling for on websites like eBay, Etsy, and Chairish. Keep in mind that high-end marketplaces like Chairish often have elevated prices, so look at sold listings to see what people are actually paying.
Example:
Last summer, I found a large brass bird sculpture at Goodwill priced at $4.99. It had a sticker on the bottom that said Dolbi Cashier. A quick image search revealed that Dolbi Cashier was a 20th-century brand known for high-end brass decor. Their pieces were once sold in luxury department stores and are now highly collectible.
The sculpture I found was made in 1980 and resells for anywhere between $300 and $700! While I have no intention of selling it, knowing its value makes me appreciate my $4.99 treasure even more.
2. Reuniting Separated Pieces
More than once, I’ve found items at thrift stores missing their original parts. Google Images has helped me track down missing lids, bases, and attachments in the same store!
Example:
- I once found a Lenox candle holder and later discovered (through an image search) that it originally came with an intricate lid—which I then located two aisles away!
- Another time, I picked up a silver-plated vase with curved arms. A Google search revealed that it was actually the base of an epergne, meant to hold a bowl on top and hanging baskets on the sides. I searched the thrift store and found all the missing pieces!
Because of Google Images, what would have been just a pretty silver vase turned into a fully restored antique treasure!
Final Thoughts
Do you need to know the value of every thrifted item? No. If something brings you joy, it doesn’t matter if it’s worth $5 or $500. But let’s be honest—finding a hidden treasure makes the hunt even more exciting!
And if you ever stumble upon a mystery item at the thrift store, don’t forget to pull out Google Images—you never know what you’ll discover!
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xoxo, L
