West German Pottery expert Forrest Poston, owner of Ginforsodditiques.com, talks with Antique Trader about this diverse pottery and what collectors need to know about makers, designers, "fat lava" and why collecting the small colorful vases can get addicting.

Despite an increase in availability, West German pottery remains primarily an Internet collectible. This presents difficulties for collectors who are curious, having heard terms such as “fat lava” and perhaps a few company names. Expert Forrest Poston offers an overview of the market and tips new collectors should mind when starting...