- Authentic Stradivari violins are made of high-quality materials, including well-seasoned maple for the back, ribs, and scroll, and spruce for the top.
- The wood used in copies may be of inferior quality or not adequately seasoned, resulting in differences in appearance and sound.
2. Craftsmanship:
- Stradivari's violins are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, with meticulously carved scrolls, purfling, and other details.
- Copies may exhibit less refined craftsmanship, such as rougher carving, uneven purfling, or poorly executed details.
3. Label:
- A Stradivari violin typically bears a label inside the body that includes the maker's name, place and date of creation, and other details.
- Copies may have a label that is poorly executed, contains inaccurate information, or is even missing altogether.
4. Varnish:
- Stradivari used a unique varnish that has contributed to the distinctive appearance and sound of his instruments.
- Copies may have a varnish that is not original, poorly applied, or does not match the characteristics of Stradivari's varnish.
5. Tonal Qualities:
- Stradivari violins are renowned for their exceptional tone, characterized by a warm, rich, and complex sound.
- Copies may have a different tonal quality, often lacking the depth, clarity, and projection of an authentic Stradivarius.
6. Certificate of Authenticity:
- A genuine Stradivari violin typically comes with a certificate of authenticity issued by a reputable expert or institution.
- Copies may not have any documentation or may have a certificate that is questionable or forged.
7. Provenance:
- Authentic Stradivari violins have well-documented histories and lineages.
- Copies may have unclear provenance or may be associated with questionable or fabricated stories.
8. Value:
- Genuine Stradivari violins are exceptionally valuable and command high prices due to their rarity, historical significance, and exceptional quality.
- Copies may be significantly less valuable, depending on their quality and authenticity.
9. Expert Examination:
- In cases where authenticity is in question, a thorough examination by a qualified expert or appraiser is necessary to determine the true origin of the instrument.
- Experts can assess various aspects of the violin, including materials, construction, sound, and other characteristics to make an informed judgment about its authenticity.