If you visit auctions or vintage sites you will no doubt see the term AF.
So what does it actually mean?
AF means ' as found ' apparently!, so what does ' as found ' actually mean?
Well it means you see it in the actual condition it is in ' As Found '. And AF whilst a lot of people will tell you AF means as found, it usually also simultaneously means ' At fault ' . So if you have the ability to view the goods you should. As soon as a seller mentions AF, if you can you view that item, do so that's if you want to bid/buy it, or if they haven't explained why the piece is AF just ask.
So why buy As Found or At Fault ' AF ' Items?
Sometimes AF pieces can provide great finds if you are a crafter or looking for pieces to restore, or just after older piece you wouldn't normally find in a complete state. There are some people who search for AF/not perfect pieces just to seek out rarer vintage parts. A lot of crafters/restorers will actively search for AF pieces as some pieces in vintage items are just literally not made any more
Mostly when the term AF is described to a vintage or antique piece it means its broken, incomplete or damaged in some way or ' As Fault ' , as stated above.
If you are searching for rare vintage stones, they can provide great finds.
If you still wish to bid you should ask the auction house/ seller what has made this piece be described as AF, if its just something simple like a broken link, or something you could fix then good luck, it could be something like missing diamonds, or chain links beyond repair but even then if your'e savvy enough the parts themselves could provide themselves very worth the purchase.
