Antique and Vintage porcelain is a collector's dream and nightmare at the same time.  So many collectors that I talk with have been sorely disappointed when purchasing something on-line due to the high rate of fraud.  That is to say, there are many reproductions of famous name pieces flooding the current marketplace.  

Regardless of where you may shop, today's collector needs to be savvy on how to spot a fake piece.  Here are a few simple guidelines that one can follow to avoid being disappointed in your purchase:

1.  GO with your gut instinct!!  If something looks too new then it probably is new and not vintage/antique.

2.  Educate yourself on current fakes being offered.  Check porcelain mark pages on-line or invest in reference manuals to help you decipher old vs. new marks.  One website is: http://porcelainmarksandmore.com/.  Check with your librarian for help with reference books.  There are a wide range that cover 1000's of factory marks.

3.  ASK QUESTIONS of the seller.  Do they have a provinance on the piece; where did they purchase it, etc.  If you are unable to physically inspect; this is an important step in your decision making process.  If you get vague answers from the seller, walk away.

4.  See with your eyes and fingers, not your heart!  If you are able to physically inspect the item look closely and from every angle.  Make sure your lighting is good.  Check with your fingers and hands as well.  Sometimes damage can be felt rather than seen.

5.  Have fun!  Don't get too stressed.  As you become more educated (most likely the hard way by making a bum purchase) buying an authentic item will become easier.