Collecting 101
An informative collection of articles and columns curated to enhance your collecting experience. Learn how to effectively run an antiques business from Wayne Jordan, discover proper care and preservation of your antiques, take a master class in antique appraising from the experts at the Asheford Institute of Antiques, and much more. Class is now in session.
Appraisals | Book Reviews | Business of Antiques | Care and Preservation
Kovels' Price Guide Remains a Collector's Best Friend
Few things in life are as enduring as Terry Kovel and her namesake book that helped to define a fledgling hobby. We celebrate the 55th edition of this impressive work and the woman who still makes it so.
Vintage Vacuums - 11 sought-after collectible models with retro appeal
When was the last time you took a good look at your family vacuum? You may never have, but the next time you do consider the history of this modern marvel of cleaning. Until then, enjoy this exploration of some of the most sought-after models of vintage vacuums.
Fine Glass Paperweight History
Discover the history and value of these small, enchanting collectibles, with their colorful and complex designs that have charmed glass lovers for centuries.
10 Best Halloween Collectibles Of All Time
What are the greatest vintage Halloween collectibles of all-time? Mark B. Ledenbach, noted Halloween historian and author, shares his favorite Halloween treasures.
How to pick vintage rhinestone jewelry that sells
With so much vintage costume jewelry on the market, how do you determine what to buy for a good investment? Here's some rhinestone jewelry picking advice.
How to Identify Old Bottles
You found an old bottle with no label or no embossing? No problem. Understanding how to identify bottles through trademark identification is the answer to your question.
Faces Give Clues to Cameo Jewelry Age, Materials
Cameos are often carved from shell, hardstone, and even glass. Discover the history of cameo jewelry, and what makes some cameos more desirable than others.
How to Identify Unmarked Costume Jewelry
Identifying unmarked costume jewelry is one of the biggest mysteries collectors face. With a little know-how, savvy collectors can turn sleepers into keepers. Here's how.
How To Identify Antique Furniture Styles
Is your chair Empire, Queen Anne, Chippendale, or even French Empire? Our identification guide will help you identify your collectible tables, chairs, chests and more.
Discovering Joy and Magical Memories in Antique Shops
A self-proclaimed neat freak finds nostalgia and a new love of old things while browsing through cluttered antique shops.
Saying Goodbye to the Beloved Phone Booth
New York recently yanked the last phone booth from the city's sidewalks, marking the official death of the public pay phone. And with the pay phone's passing, a small part of me dies too.
Why An Unburnable Book is a Symbol of Our Times
Amidst a backdrop of zealous book banning efforts, the auction of a fireproof copy of Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale" raises awareness and $130K to fight the purge.
The World's Most Valuable Vacuum Won't Even Clean Your Home
Who pays $4.4 million for a vacuum cleaner that doesn't work? The rich! And fans of Jeff Koons' art.
Miriam Haskell: Costume Jewelry of the Stars
With creative partner Frank Hess, Miriam Haskell designed affordable costume jewelry pieces promoted by some of Hollywood's biggest names. Discover why her vintage items are in such high demand.
Tough Times Demand Tougher Mom Names
Today's little girl names are way too cute. Chloe? Luna? Riley? Yikes! To ward off chaos and societal collapse, we need a return to the strong, iron-fisted Mom names of yesteryear. It may be our last hope.
