Articles Index
What is Tobacciana?
Ever wonder what the word "tobacciana" means? Learn more about antiques and collectibles related to cigars, cigarettes, and other tobacco products.
Who Was George Ohr?
Who was George E. Ohr? He dubbed himself "Mad Potter of Biloxi" long before his wares were recognized for their genius. Learn more about this modernist forefather.
Gallé Glassware
The prices for glassware produced in Emile Gallé's French workshop can be staggering in price, but it's wise to be wary of reproductions when purchasing this glass for a collection.
bib necklace
The bib necklace is not for babies. A dramatic piece of jewelry, the bib necklace has gone in and out of fashion since ancient times. This glossary-style article explains all about the bib necklace, a hot style these days.
sautoir
A sautoir is a super-long chain or beaded necklace. Popular in the early 20th century, the sautoir embodies Jazz Era style. This article defines and traces the sautoir's history, providing lovely examples of the style.
Know Your Antique Necklace Styles
A guide to different styles of antique necklaces - styles you're probably familiar with, but never knew the proper name of.
Collecting Occupational Shaving Mugs
Have you ever thought about collecting occupational shaving mugs? Learn more about them here.
Are You Selling Your Online Auctions Short?
Should you end an online auction when approached by an individual with a "buy it now" offer? This practice almost never pays off, and here are five good reasons why.
Who Was Eva Zeisel?
Have you ever heard of modernist designer Eva Zeisel? Learn more about the remarkable woman whose claim to fame is highly collectible dinnerware.
Answers to Questions About Pickard China
Pickard Decorating Studios produced some fine pieces of antique porcelain, and later fine china. Find out more about this company, including what makes its pieces valuable, through this question and answer feature.
Zsolnay Pottery
A Profile on the History and Products Made by Zsolnay Pottery if Pecs, Hungary.
Learning About Limoges
Limoges porcelain is ever-popular with collectors, but many people don't realize that Limoges is a region in France rather than the name of a factory. Learn more about this decorative porcelain here.
What Does “Flashed On” Color Mean?
If you've ever heard the term "flashed on" in passing and wondered what it meant in reference to old glassware, wonder no more.
Verdigris on Antiques
When it comes to verdigris, or green "gunk", on antiques, does it cause damage and should it be cleaned? Find the answers here.
Five Good Reasons to Attend an Antique Show
If you can't think of a good reason to attend an antique show other spending beyond your budget, then you've forgotten about all the things you can learn and enjoy beyond simply shopping at these venues.
How to Pick Like a Pawn Star
The guys on "Pawn Stars" might make buying old stuff look easy, but that's because they know what they're doing. Learn how to pick like a pawn star yourself with tips gleaned from the show.
What Do the Marks “Nickel Silver” and “Alpaca” Mean?
If you run across a mark reading nickel silver or alpaca on an antique, don't be fooled by these false forms of silver. Find out what they really are here.
Whiting & Davis
Whiting & Davis has a reputation for their vintage metal mesh purses, but the company didn't start out making handbags nor was Charles Whiting among the original founders. Learn more about the history of this intriguing company and the handbags they're so famous for manufacturing.
Developing an Eye for Quality Antiques
Developing an eye for quality antiques can help you net more valuable finds when you're out on the prowl for antiques.
A Love for Old Postcards
In the early 1900s, people communicated by post and often through colorful vintage postcards. Learn more about these collectibles through an article by Pamela Y. Wiggins, your Antiques Guide for About.com.
Vintage Sheet Music
Vintage sheet music can be an affordable collectible. There are exceptions to the rule, however. Find out which old sheet music is worth the most to collectors.
Collecting Enid Collins Handbags
Enid Collins purses weren't always in demand, but 21st century collectors avidly seek them today. Learn about how to identify and value Collins handbags.
Victorian Trade Cards
Victorian trade cards, the counterpart to the modern business card, feature interesting products and themes highly sought by avid collectors. Learn more about this type of ephemera, including how much they might be worth.
Vintage Purses - Give 'Em a Hand
Purses were used by both men and women in medieval times, but today collecting them is by and large a ladies proposition. Learn about a number of styles of highly collectible handbags and how much they're worth.
Soundalikes: Régence Vs. Regency
While they sound almost exactly alike, Régence and Regency furniture are decidedly different styles. Learn how to distinguish Régence from Regency furniture. This article offers succinct explanations of what they mean, how they differ, and how not to confuse them.