Collecting Antique Jewelry

Collecting antique jewelry can be very fun and very expensive at the same time. The key to collecting antique jewelry is to know where to look. Just being slightly informed can not only save you money but time as well.

eBay is a great place to start. You can find not only antique jewelry there but just about anything you could ever want. In the case of antique jewelry the seller has usually done his homework on researching the item and will know what its worth. You will definitely want to buy wholesale.

Another good idea is to check out you local newspaper. Many times people holding estate sales and garage sales will have antique jewelry for sale and they have no idea what it's worth. You can find some great buys.

Always remember that you aren't always going to come out on top. Once in a while however you will get lucky and hit the jackpot. Even in times that you don't you will still be able to enjoy what you have purchased.

Hidden treasures are right around the corner and you never know when you are going to stumble across one. Weekend garage sales and estate sales can very easily become part of your plans and become very addictive. You never know what could be waiting for you.

In the end estate sales will have the best finds. For the most part people who have estate sales are just looking to get rid of stuff and haven't done any real research as to the value of their items they are selling. Yard sales and garage sales do have good finds but the chances of finding something great are better at the estate sales.

Always check eBay. It can't hurt to keep an eye on what's out there. You never know what you will be able to find tucked away.

Another great tip s to always check the feedback section of sellers on eBay should you choose to buy there. For expensive items use the escrow service and keep in touch with the seller as well.

Collecting Antique Wine Glasses

There is nothing quite like sipping a fine wine from an antique wine glass, it somehow manages to make the wine taste even better. The best antique wine glasses can sell for many thousand pounds and are therefore out of reach for most collectors. If you have antique wine glasses that have been handed down to you through the generations you could be sitting on a small fortune. There are a huge number of designs of antique wine glasses and it is impossible to list them all, but here are some examples

Early glasses

Glass has been used as the material for drinking vessels since ancient Roman times, if not earlier. Glass is easily cleaned, reusable and hygienic and has never gone out of fashion. Throughout the Middle Ages glass designs became more varied, particularly decorative ones made in German speaking areas.

As with most antiques, the rule is the earlier the date of manufacture the more expensive it becomes. At the top end of the market you will find the beautifully crafted 16th and 17th century Venetian goblets, decorated with filigrana bowls. The goblet was no ordinary domestic or tavern drinking vessel, it was often larger than normal drinking glasses and sometimes with a silver or silver-gilt cover. Goblets were given as presents and occasionally engraved to mark a particular event. They are, therefore, highly sought after today and prices are high.

Balusters

Very few drinking glasses were made in England before the late 17th century. The Low Countries and Venice were the main areas of industry. However, by 1675 George Ravenscroft developed lead glass and gradually English styles appeared on the scene. The baluster design was one of the earliest examples and was popular from around 1690 to 1720. Many people consider the baluster the masterpiece of English glass making and they have become long-time favourites with collectors, due to the streamlined simplicity of design and purity of the glass.

Baluster glasses are heavy and symmetrical in form. The stems have one or more knops and the feet are either domed or conical, folded to add extra strength and stability. The designs were inspired by contemporary baroque furniture. Knops on early balusters are relatively plain, but more elaborate forms emerged during the 18th century - the 'cylinder' and 'egg' forms are considered the rarest and therefore the most valuable of these. However, genuine baluster glasses are rarely decorated. If you come across a baluster glass with engraved decoration, it is likely that it was added after the glass was initially made.

Balusters may not fetch as high a price as Venetian goblets, but they still don't come cheap - you would need to pay several thousand pounds. They attract such high prices because many heavy glasses were melted down after the 1745 Excise Tax on clear lead-crystal, so they are a rare find nowadays.

Jacobite

From the 18th century a large number of English wine glasses are made from lead glass. This is when the modern design of wine glass began to take shape - bowl, stem and foot. One of the most collectible designs are wine and ale glasses engraved with Jacobite motifs, hymns and mottoes about the Stuart descendants of King James II. Look out for engravings such as roses and butterflies - Jacobite symbols, showing that it was made for a supporter of James Stuart and his son, Charles Edward Stuart. There are also oak tree symbols, leaves, thistles, forget-me-nots and daffodils - all identified with Charles II. These glasses are sought after by collectors and usually fetch prices from £2,000 upwards.

Air-twists

With the 1745 Excise Act introducing a heavy tax on glassmakers, the weighty knop and double footed designs had to be replaced with something a little more economically sound. What emerged was the air-twist stem - wine glasses were much lighter but still highly decorative. Air-twists often feature diamond-point or wheel engravings of armorials, political mottoes and commemorative themes on the bowl.

The most popular type of air-twist was the multiple spiral, made from up to 12 even filaments. Those stems made with single spirals are known as single-series air-twists and not surprisingly those with two different patterns of spiral are referred to as double-series air-twists. Glasses such as these would have been made for the wealthy, who would have put them to use on a daily basis. They would cost several hundred pounds today.

Opaque-twists

The popularity of air-twists declined during the mid 18th century when the opaque-twist (or enamel twist) was introduced. Opaque-twists can be easily identified by the presence of solid spirals of enamel - generally in the same formations as the air-twists. At first opaque-twists were entirely white, but after 1765 they were available in various colours, including a mixture of white and coloured, white and air-twist, or occasionally coloured and air-twist. Different colours of glass have varying cooling rates, which makes some coloured rods more fragile. Yellow and blue twists, for example, are much rarer and sought after by collectors than red and green. Whereas a simple opaque-twist stem wine glass can be purchased for a relatively low price, coloured stems can reach thousands.

Faceted stems

In 1777 a further government act imposed a duty on coloured enamel glass, which rendered opaque-twists too expensive to produce. Hence the arrival of the faceted stem, whereby glass was cut away in decorative patterns - the perfect solution, as it was not only attractive but also weighed less. Facet-stem glasses have three main patterns of faceting: diamond, hexagonal and flat-cut, popular from about 1780 to 1810. You will occasionally find a glass where the foot has been faceted, but very rarely the bowl. At one time the faceted designs were less popular than air and opaque-twists, but their appeal is growing with collectors and prices are on the increase.

Other coloured glass

From the 1800s English manufacturers also began to produce cased glass wares, inspired by Bohemian and French glass. Look out for these designs because cased glass in good condition is a rare find. The technique of successfully fusing glass of different colours was a difficult task because the colours cooled at different rates, hence their scarcity.

Glasses with coloured bowls and clear stems became popular during the end of the 19th century and were probably manufactured specifically for white wine, which was very popular in the Victorian era. When walking around auctions and fairs you may notice quite a large number of green and cranberry designs as these were the most popular. Other colours such as yellow, blue and amethyst are much rarer.

If you want to start collecting antique wine glasses you will be spoilt for choice and while you can pay thousands of pounds for a single glass there are many antique wine glasses that can be picked up quite cheaply

Collecting Antique Books - How to Become a Book Hound

One hobby that is rapidly growing in popularity is that of antique book collecting. Because there are still so many rare antique books around in places like small town auctions and garage sales, there is a chance to collect classic works cheap and possibly make some good money on the side selling these rare first editions to serious collectors and rare book bookstores.

If you're interested in collecting antique books and joining the legions of book hounds out there, one of the first things you will need to learn is the difference between old books and antique books.

Not every old book is going to be worth something. There are many books from around 1900 that aren't worth anything, even if they are uncommon, because they were just pulp fiction back then, and so not worth anything now, either.

On the other hand, there are paperbacks from the 1960s an 1970s that are worth a couple hundred bucks each (see Richard Bachman, or one of Dean Koontz's dozen pennames). This is usually because of a famous author writing these books under pennames, then becoming famous later on in the career.

When collecting books, the popularity of the author or the book does make a difference in how much it is worth. This is in addition to how many copies of a book are estimated to be left. There are hundreds of thousands of copies of Sinclair Lewis's and John Steinbeck's later novels, but they are classic authors and so first editions in great condition are still worth decent money.

Many great collectible books, especially the most valuable, are first editions of books by famous authors that were written before the author became famous. This is why books like "Travels with Charley" by John Steinbeck, "It Can't Happen Here" by Sinclair Lewis, and "The Old Man and the Sea" by Ernest Hemingway are great first edition books, but worth far less than nearly unheard of early books by these authors like:

1. Hike and the Aeroplane (Sinclair Lewis)
2. Cup of Gold (John Steinbeck)
3. In Our Time (Ernest Hemingway)

These latter three books are worth $12,000-$60,000 for true first editions, in strong part due to the fact that these were some of the earliest works by these authors, who were all unknown at the time, so not only are they by famous authors, but they're rare, as well.

Knowing the difference between just an old book, and a valuable rare book, is critical in becoming a good book hound.

Collecting Antique Dolls Makes a Wonderful Hobby

The great period for doll making was from 1840 through 1830.

In this era doll makers took great pride in their work and turned out dolls of great fine tuned detail, from the hand painted eyes in the smooth porcelain heads to the steel riveted leather or cloth bodies and porcelain limbs. The clothing on these antique dolls were hand made by accomplished seamstresses who took the same pride in their work as the doll makers did.

Today we can see this pride reflected in the dolls that have survived the past hundred or more years and they are truly a joy to look at. The fine porcelain heads with human hair set in the pates with the fine detailed faces reflect the countenance of the time period in which they were made. The wonder and innocence that seems to emulate from those faces can bring us back in time in our imaginations.

The wonderfully refined and cultured dress of the antique dolls that were made to represent the women of the time are exquisite. From the long underclothing to the many layers above, finished off with the high topped shoes and the sun shading hat. Armand Marseille, Heinrich Handwerck, Ernst Heubach, JD Kestner, Ernst Kammer, Franz Reinhardt, Pierre Jumeau and Leon Casimir Bru were each in the top of the top doll makers in the time period in which they lived and worked their doll magic.

Today any of their dolls are the ones collectors keep an eye open for.

Marceille, Handwerck, Heubach, Kestner, Kammer and Reinhardt were all of German descent, Jumeau and Bru of French descent.

When collecting antique dolls, everyone wishes for the best, of course, a doll with no cracks or crazing, which is a "weathering" of the doll shown by lines on the surface, and certainly no missing limbs. However, even those dolls are worthy of having in your collection. They show a loved and well played with history and are valuable just as they are, not all cleaned up and repainted and redressed and given new wigs.

More often than not, a " redoing " will diminish the value of a collectible doll.

If you are a doll lover of any kind, beware. Once you begin to really look at these old antique dolls, you will be smitten. They are hard to resist, but.. know that any one of them that makes its way into your home and your heart will never let you down. Their value can only go up as time goes by... and there will always be doll lovers around.

How to Collect Antique Radios That Bring Back All Those Special Memories

Collecting antique radios has become increasingly popular among people all over the world in the past 30 years. The culture behind each antique radio is unique and tells a story about how life was lived during the late 1800's and the first half of the 1900's. It was such an unusual time in American history to look at. It gives us a reference point to all the advances in technology made today. It gives us a vantage point from how far we have come over the past century.

Each antique collector has their own reason for collecting old radios, though most will tell you that they simply have a passion or a special affinity for vintage radios. Why do they have this passion in collecting radios? There are a number of factors in how this love was developed. Some people were moved by the sound quality that these old radios cranked out. The special sound generated from these radios continue to bring back memories of growing up in that era. It was the age of "Big Bands" and famous old radio shows that played nightly. Remember, their was no television for most of this era. Families huddled around the radio in the evening to listen to their special radio show or music. Most people reported a wave of memories that flood their mind when they hear the old songs on an old radio or phonograph. You can always tell how much they love collecting when you hear the excitement in their voice and their animated, excitement when they talk about these old radios.

Others simply have a love for history, in how radio and television came into being. It is fascinating to go back and look at the basic concepts of radio and television creation. Or to study such a man as Thomas Edison, who said after his 10,000th failure to create the light bulb that he didn't see them as failures. It was simply finding 10,000 ways that did not work. The geniuses of that era will never be forgotten. It is upon their achievement and inventive minds that formed a solid foundation for the inventions of today.

Edison changed the world with the invention of the radio, phonograph and light bulb. He never gave up on any of his inventions. His tenacity was amazing! Did you ever wonder what it would be like if Edison had given up on his inventions? We would not have the radio for one. Or the light bulb to light our homes, streets and businesses? We have much to be thankful for to these valiant men that forged the future American life today.

If you want to start collecting antique radios, a great place to start would be antique exhibitions. You will be able to find and meet other collectors that share the same interest as yours. Another is estate auctions of the elderly who have passed on. You are likely to find some really great deals on quality antique radios. Another place to look is on the internet. You can type in any model or name into a "Google search" and find thousands of old radios of every make and model. Try youtube.com as well. There are 100s of videos made on all kinds of vintage radios. Good luck on your journey into this amazing hobby.

Collecting Antique Quilts - History, Heirlooms, and High Art

From the earliest days of the American colonies, quilts were an important part of everyday life. They kept the family warm, sometimes covered the dinner table, and occasionally flew high as banners. Now those same functional and beautiful antique quilts are highly prized by modern collectors.

The Most Common Antique Quilts

Among the countless quilts tucked away in chests, antique stores, and museums, there are a few particular types that are most common. The "Appliqué" quilt, most popular between 1775 and 1885, consisted of pieces of fabric design that were quilted onto a large, solid color-block. The "Trapunto" quilt was a popular kind of appliqué quilt in which the designs were stuffed with cotton to create a raised look and feel.

"Album" quilts were made up of small sections, each section sewn by someone different, and then put together to form one large quilt. "Patchwork" quilts were made of a distinct pattern, whether a square, a rectangle, or some other configuration. Though patchwork quilts were most common from 1775 to 1875, they have been embraced by quilters of all time periods.

"Crazy" quilts, popular from 1870 to 1890 (and well into the 1930's and '40's, especially in rural areas of Appalachia and the South), were made with anything a quilter could find that looked appropriate in their work, including bits of worn family clothing. They seemed to have no rhyme or reason, other than in the mind of the person who created them. In part because of this, Crazy quilts are often believed to have been created more of necessity and household utility rather than a particular sense of design or pattern. Because of their personal nature, Crazy quilts often have great sentimental value.

From Household Chore to Works of Art

As the American cotton industry began to evolve in the early 1800s, so did the creation of quilts. Before the time of the sewing machine, quilts were stitched by hand. Quilts created from 1800 to 1825 often show impressive levels of craftsmanship, with tiny stitches that were meant to last through years of use. By 1850, practically every household in the United States had a quilter in their midst, and the needlework skill varied from the neat, distinct, and careful hand-stitching of experienced quilters to the uneven and less-attractive stitches of untutored amateurs.

In the years after the Civil War, the industrial revolution found a foothold, popularizing mechanized tools, and helping the sewing machine to become a household staple. Gradually, the fine stitching of quilts became a much rarer craft, in favor of pieces that could be created faster, with less attention to detail. Quilts wouldn't be considered functional pieces of art until the late 20th century, when quilting saw an intense revival that continues to this day.

Family and Community Heirlooms

Some of the world's most beautiful quilts never find their way to a museum wall or even to an appraiser. They reside on the beds of family members who can tell you which ancestor stitched them together, when they did it, and why. These are the family heirlooms, often quilts made for a specific person, possibly given as gifts, and then passed down through generations.

As keepers of history, quilts are a story-telling medium. They were often created to honor someone's place in a community, to celebrate a wedding or a new home, and to mark special days. Quilts were also used to make political or social statements. One of the best modern examples can be found in the AIDS Quilt, a project founded in 1987 that brings together the families of those who have passed away from the complications of AIDS.

What is Valuable...and How to Tell

When you are seeking the perfect antique quilt, knowledge of quilting techniques and materials is the key to getting the genuine article. Reproductions can sometimes be convincing enough to fool seasoned experts! To be certain you are getting a true antique quilt, keep the following points in mind.
What type of batting was used? The polyester batting familiar to modern quilters is a relatively new development; polyester wasn't popular until the 1960s. Antique quilts will usually contain wool or cotton, and they will sometimes have silk batting. Another common practice was to use old, ragged quilts as batting in new ones.
Consider the thread. Before thread was cheap and readily available, many women used the heavy cotton threads from feed sacks to sew their quilts together. On an appliqué quilt, is white thread used throughout? Matching threads in appliqué quilts is more of a modern standard.
Look carefully at the stitching. The stitches should be small, evenly spaced, and very regular throughout the quilt. Most true antique quilts were made to be beautiful as well as functional, and the tight stitching insured that the quilt would not fall apart after years of use.
Examine the condition of the cloth. The fabric of an old quilt will likely be very soft and possibly worn thin in places. Newer quilts might look pristine for decades, but true antique quilts were probably well-loved and used regularly.
Consider the size of the bed. Bed configurations have changed over the years. A quilt large enough for a modern king bed, for instance, was not the aim of a quilter in the early 1800s.
What dyes were used? Dyes in the early 19th century were made by boiling plants on the stove, usually in iron pots, in order to extract their color. Most of these colors were rather drab, and consisted of earthy colors, such as slate or light greens. Aniline dyes were popular around the time of the Civil War, and started out quite vivid, but faded over time.

So whether you collect antique quilts with an eye for design, an interest in the heritage they represent, or simply as a means of investment, it is very important to choose an antique dealer who has a good reputation. Serious antique dealers will go the extra mile to secure the provenance, or the known history of the quilt, so far as they can trace it. And a reputable dealer can be the difference between a wall full of treasures and a chest full of reproductions.

Article Writing Is Like Collecting Antiques - The Next One Could Be a Real Gem

Do you like collecting antiques? Many people do and if you ever showed a profit from buying and selling them, then you should write about it. All you have to do is do some research and find the most popular "keywords" and then build your article around those words. You can also write about the history of each antique.

There are more and more people who are entering the antiques collectible world everyday. They really need your help and guidance and will listen too your advice. The best thing you can do is give helpful tips in your articles. Those are very valuable to the newbie. They really don't know where to start when it comes to investing their money into these items.

Here is a list of tips that I would recommend that you start with as follows:

1. Where is the best place to buy antiques?

2. What antiques sell best?

3. What antiques appreciate in value the most?

4. What to look for when your buying antiques?

This is just a few things that you can mention.The sky is the limit, it's really up to your own creativity as to what you can write about.

This is one of my favorite hobbies. I have a western collection that I have been working on for the last two years. I have traveled all over to different places to build my collection. I really have a passion for it. Now that I'm retired I can spend more time and money looking for other items that I would like to add to my growing collection. As a matter of fact I'm going on another trip this week and I will be traveling over 200 miles to get there.

That brings up another interesting point. The typical collector will be spend an unlimited amount money on his or her collection. This is a very emotional hobby with people. It almost becomes an obsession with the fanatic collector. They are always looking for another item to add to their collection. They think that the next one might be a real diamond-in-the-ruff so to speak.

So, my advice is to start blogging right now. Don;t worry about buying expensive ads for your blog. The articles are a new source for getting traffic to your site. You can also build a website and add some Antique Price guides to sell and make even more money. The object is to build up your readership and then you can submit your sites to Google AdSense for a monthly check. Then they will add other website owners ads to your site.

Here is a name of a blog that you can use right now as follows: (Wordpress)

If you need more information on this subject or you have a question or comment then just contact me down below.

Shopping For Collectible Antiques You Should Know

Have you ever considered collectible antiques? It's not only a fun way to spend your time but they are also fun to find. You have to be careful however, many of these antiques turn out to be a great investment while others may fall short and end up costing more than they are worth. Some things to consider before spending your money on what you might think is a great buy. The condition of the item is very important. Also consider the availability of the item. A good place to start is ebay. Is there very many being advertised and more importantly are they actually selling?

As mentioned earlier the condition of the item is extremely important and determines the selling price. There are standards set for most items. Damaged items, a chipped bowl or scratched and dented items will of course not demand the same price as an item in mint condition.

The above is not always true for certain items. An item may be damaged but if it is rare and very hard to find it may still be worth a great deal. An old baseball card from the past, even if not in perfect condition may demand a lot more than another card if it is not easily obtained. Basically collectible antiques are the same as any other items. The price is normally determined by supply and demand. The less there are then the higher the price.

So what should you do if you decide to deal in collectible antiques? It could be you want to collect them for yourself or buy to sell at a profit. Finding them is no problem. Surprisingly a good place to start is goodwill. Not the stores themselves but online at http://www.shopgoodwill.com/

Goodwill picks the best of the litter so to speak and now holds their own auctions. Go to the store nowadays and you'll be lucky to find anything of any real value. Right now is a good time to view the auctions because not to many people know about them but as it gets more popular even finding good deals through them will be harder and harder.

Another source is the good old garage sale. Paintings worth millions have been picked up for a few dollars because the owner found it in the attic or closet and didn't realize what they had. Wouldn't it be great to find one of these great deals? Spend a day or two scouting these sales, you just might be the next garage sale millionaire.

Another thing you should do, especially in the beginning is choose a niche. It's easier to learn everything about one particular line than to spread yourself so thin you know nothing about anything. Jewelry for instance, you could learn to spot items by design or the material used. Starting with one line of product makes it easier to do your research and spot the bargains. Pretty soon you'll be efficient at what you do and may even be considered an expert by others.

For instance items like rings, amulets and lockets can have a unique design that can raise their value significantly. Gold will almost always be worth more than silver which will most always be worth more than bronze. Again this is not always true. It's possible for a bronze trinket to bring a high price if it's found to be one of a kind or has great historic value. These are the things that you learn with research and experience.

A lot of collectible antiques will be sold with a certificate of authority, which is always nice to have. Whenever possible request this form, it not only ads value but also qualifies the purchase and if you decide to resell it's a great bargaining tool. You should of course verify the certificate. There are always unscrupulous people out there that may provide a fake just to sell the item. Go online and see if certificates were actually issued, if all else fails seek out an expert especially if there's a considerable amount of money involved.

In conclusion when buying or selling collectible antiques the overall condition and the source are both things that you should consider. The design and characteristics can make a difference in the price. Availability, if it's hard to find it's you should consider checking it out, do the research and possible purchase. By following these guidelines when looking at antiques it will definitely increase your chances of making a great investment.

Doug Sheridan is involved in numerous online ventures. He supplies information to help people make wise, educated decisions.

Collecting Antique Coins

Collecting coins has become a very popular hobby in recent years. As gold and silver prices climb to new height every day, collecting antique coins is not only rewarding from an educational viewpoint, but many people are able to use this hobby as a source of prudent investment.

Antique coins are especially popular for coin collectors as they are often made of pure gold or silver. Many modern coins have additional elements such as copper added to make them more durable, and thus are less valuable. Antique coins can be bought from on-line auction sales, coin shows, malls and even in tourist attractions that have historical themes. As you might expect, antique coins vary greatly in value. Their value is often reflected in their historical significance and condition as well as the quality of the materials they are made from.

Here are some tips to be considered if you want to start collecting antique coins:

1. Make sure that the antique coin is genuine. With modern technology it is becoming increasingly easier to produce authentic looking fake coins. Its important that you can ascertain its authenticity, either in some form of certificate or by having an expert appraise the coin first hand if possible.

2. Start small and build. Yes, we would all like to own that rare Roman coin when we're starting out but don't take unnecessary risks or stretch your budget too far when you start out. Remember, you can always buy the really rare ones when you are more established.

3. Take care when starting out. You will gain a knowledge of antique coins as your collection improves and your eye will become more accustomed to spotting potential fakes. Always be aware that you could be falling victim to a scam or fraud and remain vigilant at all times. If an offer seems too good to be true, then it probably is.

4. If possible, always try and get a professional to appraise your potential purchase. Not only will it satisfy you of its authenticity but most experts will advise you on the right price to pay.

5. Try and limit your collection to a specific time or geographic region. Coin collections are actually worth more if they specialise in this way.

6. Look after your collection. No one wants to look at, or buy, a tatty collection of coins. Even valuable coins will lose their appeal if badly cared for. Antique coins must be treated with extra care in order to preserve their appearance as well as their value. While you want them to look good, a seasoned collector will know when to stop cleaning them as excessive cleaning will only depreciate their value.

Collecting antique coins can be a very rewarding pastime but, like all good hobbies it does require patience and a good eye for detail. You should take time to research your purchases thoroughly, but also take time to enjoy that feeling when you unearth a true find.

Collecting Antiques - It's a Blast

Collecting antiques is a favorite passion of mine and is a great hobby that never gets old or boring. More than that, it is totally in touch with the history and beauty of our past and actually preserves that past for the next generation.

This is not simply about spending a great amount of money to buy an antique, but is about nurturing the mind and discovering the past both recent and ancient, whichever you wish. Collecting antiques is a very demanding hobby and a passion many know too well, indeed many antique collections are surprisingly valuable and extremely interesting. Oh yes, this is a great hobby, but be careful - know your subject before you part with your money.

This is a hobby and so therefore it is also a matter of personal choice and taste. You may love Clarice Cliff, your neighbour may love Moorcroft. Antiques collections have over the years become more and more popular, with a realisation that many antiques and other collectables are as affordable as 'newer items,' whilst retaining, and often increasing in their value over a period of time.

No one can argue that this is a labor of love and a heck of a lot of fun too as not only is there personal enjoyment to be had in collecting, but another reason is the possible potential value of the items you have - sometimes you just don't know exactly the worth of what you just bought until someone tells you.

Part of the fun and interest in collecting antiques is the fascinating history that comes with owning an item and a realisation that you may have something unique. The fun is that you never know where and when you will find a gem. You may find a Beswick piece in an Antiques Auction, you may find it in your grandmother's house or you may even find it in your local, dusty old Junk Shop - who knows?

I think it's great to collect antiques because it's one of the closest things you can get to a time-machine, but also my favorite part is that every once in a while, you can find a bargain, save money and own an investment all in the same day.

Collectible Antique Glassware

Antique glassware collecting is a hobby, or a vocation for some which is truly satisfying, as you acquire access to some of the most remarkable and valuable pieces ever produced.

Glass making is of an enduring one, as this tradition has survived well into the 21st century and will be around probably till the end of time, as no other materials can compare to it. Plus, glass making technology is advancing so rapidly that manufacturers are discovering consistently of exciting innovative usage methods.

Glass was first produced in the Middle East over more than 3500 years ago, and was first introduced in England circa 1226. The extensiveness of glassware use permeated the world over for centuries, and since its inception, many styles have been conceived to suit the needs of consumers and collectors.

The glassware industry began making leaps and bounds during the 19th century. Novel methods and practices were encumbered in Britain, America, Bohemia, France and Germany; these countries manufactured glassware of exquisite designs and dimensions. Innovative techniques such as engraving, (cameo and rock crystal styles) cutting and acid etching were widely utilized to create the most beautiful intricate patterns.

In the earlier part of the 20th century, some of the world's most coveted glassware was produced in America and France. These glassware items are considered as antiques, and auctioned at very high prices.

Let us briefly understand what constitutes as antique glassware:

The term 'full antique' refers to glassware manufactured using the traditional mouth-blown cylinder process. The artisan blows a glass tube which is then shaped and aerated. This tube or cylinder is then attained lengthwise, divided, heated again, and collapsed into a smooth plane. Archetypal distinctiveness include striking linear parallel grooves and an immaculate façade.

Drawn antique or also known as semi-antique, new antique or machine antique is glassware which simulates full antique manufacturing utilizing the vertical draw technique. The stripes of contrasting colors, or feel of the surfaces are applied mechanically. However, this does not affect quality, as it remains infallible. The good news is that drawn antique costs less than full antique. One great example of drawn antique would be the German New Antique, or in some circles, known as GNA.

A scribed antique is made using the double roll method, akin to sheet forming. Its linear ridges or furrows are marked directly into the piping glass surface. Scribe antique was first coined by Spectrum Glass Company in 1996, and labeled as 'Artique'. This type of antique is also less expensive than full antique.

When the first World War commenced, there was a significant decrease in antique glassware quality, although some key pieces with high integrity were still intermittently produced. After the second World War, there was a considerable decline with the manufacturing of designs with useful functions.

The key to collecting antique glassware is to first look at the designs, then condition. Some antique glassware was made to endure, and make excellent additions to your existing collection. You need not spend vast amounts of money to start collecting. Scout through garage sales and attics of friends and families, with permission of course; you just might find some invaluable treasures.

Start Collecting Antiques & Collectibles

Love is the key to collecting anything be it antiques or beanie babies. When you love the things you collect, you feel a passion that encourages you to spend your money, time and energy adding to and caring for your collection.

Begin your collection with pieces you love. The first step to collecting is to find something you love and want to surround yourself with. A healthy and inspiring collection is one you will want to live with for years to come. The exact nature of your collection is up to you. Choose art or furniture of a particular period or style or select an item that is representative of meaning in your life. Consider collecting teddy bears like the first one your mother gave you or elephant figurines after one sparked your interest at a flea market. You might have to take a look around your home and find that a collection has already started. Look for the things you love then build your collection around them.

Do your homework and research the collectible. Now that you have selected the pieces that will begin your collection it is time to start researching. Visit websites and gather reference books with the details and history of the items you want to collect. Remember that collections don't have to have value to anyone other than the collector. You might choose to collect inexpensive items that speak to you or items of higher value. Talk to the experts. When and if your collection begins to have some value it's time to talk to the experts. Listen to their advice. Through them you can learn what value is reasonable for items you want to add to your collection. They can also help you discover the most common flaws found in fakes or copies of the types of items you collect.

Learn the distinctive qualities of what you collect. Whether you are collecting antique Chippendale furniture or Impressionist paintings your steps are still the same. Learn what makes items collectible as what they are. Learn the specifics - what makes a Chippendale or Hummel authentic or a reproduction. There are hundreds of books on the subject of antiques and collectibles. Check your local library for manuals on your chosen collectible.

Wander in the likely places. Get shopping at antique stores, flea markets and estate sales. Haunt the areas most likely to have the items you're looking for. If that means New England estate sales then head there. If it means shopping at toy stores or eBay, then you go where the collectibles are. You can start collecting with a single purchase and a little research then watch your collection grow over time.

You can begin collecting with just a little bit of time and care. If antiques are your love then you might find your Saturday afternoons captured by wandering through the aisles of thrift stores and small town rummage or estate sales. Get your friends and family involved in collecting and there will be hours of fun in your future.

About Collecting Antique Clocks

As with anything there are many, many reasons a person might consider to begin collecting antique clocks: maybe one has been inherited to them and the desire for more like it has been bred, perhaps someone has found a way to speculate and profit from them, or it could be that a person has simply fallen in love with them and cannot get enough of them.

Whatever the reason you decide to start collecting antique clocks, or if you've already started, you'll definitely be happy about the large amount of different styles and ages and eras that you can begin or continue your collecting in.

For instance, you could begin by collecting only those made in a certain country. There are many countries that have some extremely beautiful, ornate and amazing antique clocks that you could start out with. You'll find them on the market from every country in the world, most notably however are: Germany, France, the United States and England.

Some people collecting antique clocks will collect those made by certain makers. A few of the more common of those would be Ansonia, Seth Thomas, Chelsea or Sessions. These clock makers have many different styles of that come onto the market in both the affordable beginner's price range and also the more experienced upper price ranges as well.

There are those that collect only certain kinds of antique clocks. They may concentrate on ornate wall clocks with long pendulums, or wall clocks with short pendulums. Some will collect mantle clocks or grandfather clocks. Maybe you like the look of only oak clocks or walnut clocks or those made out of early plastics.

Of course, there is always the antique clocks of a certain time period. If you're just starting out maybe you'll want to start with those that were made in the 1920s or even break up a little further: from the 1920s and from a United States based clock maker. Looking for something older? Then you can go back as far as your budget will allow, after all the very first spring powered clock was invented in the very early fifteen hundreds.

Whatever the reasons you have for wanting to get started, unless you already have, in this great hobby the most important thing is to have fun doing it and avoid over spending your budget. Collecting antique clocks can be very addicting!

How to Begin Collecting Antiques

Collecting antiques for pleasure or for profit can be a very rewarding hobby and pastime. It is possible to start your collection with just one piece and then choose to either continue expanding your pieces or buy something totally different. There are no real steps to start collecting antiques - apart from buying, finding or being given your very first piece, but if you are interested in taking it more seriously, here are a few tips.

Collecting anything is much easier if you actually like the pieces. The first tip is to find something that you really like and choose that as a starting point. It could be paintings, furniture or even tiny thimbles. As long as it is something that you would want to be surrounded by in years to come, then it is worth collecting. The brilliant part about collecting antiques is that no two collections are the same. The types of items can be so diverse, you could almost pick anything to collect. Some people collect certain types or brands of antiques, whilst others might want to re-kindle their affections with pieces from their childhood. Take a look around your home. It could be that you have several items that could start you on the road to your first collection.

Once you have decided what you are going to collect, get books, read information on the internet and get as much knowledge about the items as possible. One of the best tips is to speak to as many experts and enthusiasts as possible. This is where the knowledge of your collection will become more well informed and rounded. They can give you advice on what to look for, where to look and common pitfalls that they have encountered. They will also be able to tell you about which items are the most rare or valuable or if you have a good collection. If you find someone who knows their stuff, they will also be able to tell you how to spot fakes and imitation pieces.

The next tip will be fed by you speaking to people and also reading as much as you can about your chosen antiques. You will need to know how to identify, clarify and confirm the antiques before you buy them. No matter what you choose to collect, you will need to know the important hallmarks, signatures, tell-tale-signs and give-aways that tell you if a piece is genuine or not. You will also need to know what makes certain pieces collectible compared to others. Try to get as much knowledge about identification as possible and it will improve your love of the antiques you are collecting.

The final tip is another obvious one really. Make sure you spend your time in the places where these antiques are sold. Markets, second hand shops, auctions and antique shops are just a few of the places you will be able to find antiques to collect. Try to be where the items are made. If possible, travel to the same area of the country or world where they were made - there will be more items nearer to the source. There are also plenty of websites such as eBay, where you can find a good deal too - which might be the best place to start collecting antiques, although make sure you buy from sellers that have already had a high number of sales and have a good reputation.

There are many more tips for collecting antiques that I could share with you, but these are the basics. Master these and you will be well on your way to becoming a knowledgable master of your chosen collection. One day, you could be the person that others seek out to learn from.

When Collecting Antique China Becomes a Fetish

Buying antique china to add to your collection of antiques is a great idea. Collecting antiques can be an expensive hobby but it is definitely worth the investment. This is why even if you would have to shell out a lot of cash for it, if collecting them can give you that sense of joy, then there's no reason why you wouldn't think about adding them to your collection.

You will realize you have an excellent hobby of collecting antiques when they are appraised higher than the amount that you have originally bought them for. However, a fetish is a fetish. When you are attached to things, you usually wouldn't want to get rid of them or sell them away even if you know they are already priced higher than the amount you have originally bought them. So, is that a bad thing or not?

When collecting antique china is part of your business, you are willing to learn everything there is to learn about antiques. Some information that you once thought to be dull and boring will suddenly become of interest to you. Below is a list of things that would be of paramount importance when you get yourself hooked into buying antiques:

1. Knowledge of history. When you are into buying or selling antiques, it is expected that you would have some idea about the history of the antiques in your possession. This is something that you would also like to do further research or inquiry about. With this, you are then willing to go out of your way in order to gain knowledge of the story behind such antiquities.

2. Age. We all know that for a thing to be considered antique, it should be at least a hundred years old. It takes skills and expertise to know the age of an antique. Somehow, it would be a little easier to do that if you have been collecting and reading more about antique china for quite some time.

3. You will know the techniques on how to handle antiques with care. One of the things that would interest you when you own antiques is on the best way to handle them safely. Antiques are good investments, which is why you also want to make sure they are well kept and secured; naturally because you didn't purchase them cheap.

4. You will find it important to determine a real antique from a fake one. When you want to invest your money on antiques, you would want to find out if they are real or not. Surely, you don't want your money invested on antiques only to find out that they were not actually antiques but vintage stuff. In this case, it is best to hire and appraiser for confirmation.

5. You will know the value of such antiquities. Whether you are selling or buying antiques, the knowledge of the current value of antiques will prove to be very important to you.

Your Must Know Guide When Collecting Antique Mantel Clocks

There's something special about a home with a grand fireplace with ample room for a collection of antique mantel clocks. If you've considered beginning a collection of mantle clocks, you may want to take the time to do some homework. Collecting antique mantel clocks can be rewarding but it can also be expensive, especially if your knowledge is limited. Even though you can find affordable mantle clocks in a variety of styles, you'll want to ensure you're purchasing a true antique rather than a modern replica, or worse yet a fake antique. Take the time to do your research before purchasing your first clock and you'll know you're getting your money's worth.

Antique mantel clocks come in many types and styles. You can find alarm clocks, grandfather clocks, and cuckoo clocks. Since there are so many styles available, it would be helpful to choose one type to collect rather than trying to collect them all. If you are able to narrow your choice to one type of clock, it will make collecting that much easier. While you want each mantle clock to be able to stand on its own, you also want each one to be suitable to group together. If you should find a rare antique mantel clock of Mickey Mouse and you simply have to get it, be prepared to place it in a different location than with your cuckoo clock collection. Knowing what your collection goals are will help you decide whether or not to purchase that great clock and whether it will fit with your current collection.

While it is possible to have fun collecting antique mantel clocks, and there is a potential for profit, you'll want to be aware of some of the pitfalls you may encounter. Many people are interested in this type of collection so you may find clever reproductions pieces. In fact, some of the replicas are so well made that it's difficult to tell them from a true antique. You can use the same advice federal agents are given when learning to tell counterfeit money, "Spend so much time learning about the real dollars so you can tell the fake easily." This is especially important if you're an amateur. Doing your homework will help you avoid being taken advantage of and losing money. What can you do? Read online descriptions and pour over books about the real thing to learn which key elements to look for. Then, if at all possible, seek an independent appraisal of any antique mantle clock you're interested in prior to actually purchasing it.

While it is possible you'll find a rare antique mantel clock at a garage sale or online auction, don't get your hopes up. More than likely you'll have to look at reputable dealers or antique shops for what you're looking for. If you're looking for a particular piece to add to your collection, shop around and do your research before putting your hard-earned money on it. By shopping around, you may be able to find the same piece for less money. It may also be in better condition.

Collecting antique mantel clocks can be an enjoyable activity. Be wary of jumping right in without learning all you can about the subject, determining what the key signs are for recognizing a true antique, and what mistakes to avoid. Having this knowledge will keep you from making an expensive purchase to find out you've been duped later. When it comes to purchasing any type of collectible, the Latin phrase "caveat emptor," which means let the buyer beware, stands true.

Secrets of Collecting Antique Marbles And Other Toys

There was a time in days gone by when marbles was all the rage. Kids would draw a circle on the ground and flip their marbles towards the center, hoping and praying that no one knocked them out if they were close, because that meant they would lose their marble to their opponent.

Do you remember those days?

What about all those other toys you played with that are now considered antique? The dollhouses, wagons, Barbies, and cars, the list can go on and on.

Chances are that you still have your prized marble collection, with your most prized marble in it if you DO remember those days. So, if you are thinking about adding to a current marble collection or starting a collection of other antique toys we have a few suggestions for you to keep in mind.

There are all kinds of vintage or antique toys to think about collecting and you may just need to talk to your elders to find out about some of them. When it comes to collecting antique toys, there are many fans of particular collections, it is a matter of what the collector has a feeling for.

For example, if you are collecting antique marbles, you will find marbles made from agate and stone, crockery and china, mica or goldstone, and the ones that are made of colored swirls of glass can be classified, such as German swirls.

You can find many books for sale to help you identify the many types of marbles and this reference material can be quite helpful. Finding out about the companies that manufactured certain marbles can be helpful as well. Companies such as, Peltier Glass, Christensen Agate or Akro Agate, just to name a few.

When searching for advice on collecting antique marbles and other toys, it might be a matter of researching certain niches on the Internet. There are a variety of antique toys to consider.

Collecting items such as, Barbie dolls, Beanie Babies and Hot Wheels might come to mind for some toy collectors. There are literally thousands of collectible toy options starting in the mid 1800′s to present day. If you think about some of the wooden toys, cast-iron tractors and other farm toys from the past, the possibilities are endless.

There are a number of reference tools available on the Internet to help you with collecting antique toys. In addition, you can find catalogs that show pictures and list the estimated values on thousands of different vintage and antique toys, including marbles.

For those that don't have a particular type of collectible toy in mind, there are many different choices to consider and many places you can find out about collecting them. Most people have a particular passion, when it comes to collecting antique, so it is just a matter of visiting places that you know where you might find them, and getting advice from people that are familiar with the toys.

There are clubs and organizations made up of members that collect antique marble. Additionally, there are trade shows and events held for people that collect vintage toys, including Barbie doll conventions, Hot Wheel swap meets and more. If you are like most collectors, you might have a passion from your childhood that has spurred your interest throughout the years.

Many of the experts in antique marbles or vintage toys will tell you they were interested in the hobbies from the times they were very young. It's never too late to act on your desires to become a collector, so you can easily start collecting antique marbles, or hundreds of other types of antique toys with very little experience or knowledge. You just have love the toy - or the memory - or collecting.

As with all collectibles, one of the best places to start looking is online. This will help you discover what's hot in collectible toys and will also give you an idea of supply and demand. For example, Beanie Babies was a hot collectible for a few years, but today it is not much in demand so the prices are low. On the other hand Barbie dolls are in great demand so the prices are higher and finding mint condition dolls is harder to do.