When you first become interested in antiques or want to buy a collectible, it can be a challenge to know where to start if you don't understand antique valuation. Most people begin with items they already love, like glass, pottery, or costume jewelry, but what do you do if you're not nursing a crush on teacups or cameo brooches? Start by learning about what kinds of collectibles are out there and which name brands get the attention.
Pottery
Historians, archaeologists and anthropologists all use pottery as a reference point to gather information about various ancient cultures, but this category of antiques and collectibles goes beyond clay pots used to carry water that you might see in museum displays. Pottery, sometimes called ceramics, also includes porcelain, stoneware and earthenware.
While it's unlikely you'll discover clues to ancient civilizations at your local antique store, you may want to keep an eye out for some of the following American pottery pieces to start your own collection:
Rookwood. Founded by Maria Longworth Nichols in Cincinnati in 1880, Rookwood filed for bankruptcy in 1941 and closed doors completely in 1960. Rookwood is known for its glazes and decorating techniques.
Roseville Pottery. Roseville Pottery opened in 1892 in Ohio. Roseville sold innovative, but affordable pottery until the company closed in 1954. Today, Roseville pottery is highly sought after by collectors for its trademark matte, floral look.
Van Briggle Pottery. Van Briggle Pottery was started by Artus and Anne Van Briggle in 1899 and heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau movement. This Colorado Springs-based company is still producing beautiful art pottery today. The more collectible Van Briggle pottery dates from 1899 through the 1920s.
Weller. In 1872, Sam Weller opened doors in Fultonham, Ohio. Weller closed in 1948. Weller is known today for its high quality art pottery, most notably its flower pots, bowls and vases.
Glass Art & Antiques
Like pottery, glass has been in existences for thousands of years. While its origins are difficult to pinpoint, the Roman historian Pliny the Elder (23-79 A.D.) described how the Phoenician merchants discovered it circa 5,000 B.C. While you won't encounter Phoenician glass outside of museums, you can enjoy collecting more modern pieces produced by the following companies:
A. H. Heisey and Company. Civil War veteran Augustus H. Heisey founded A. H. Heisey and Company in 1896. The company produced high quality glassware and art figurines known for their clarity and brilliance until operations ceased in 1957.
Fenton Art Glass Company. Brothers Frank and John Fenton started Fenton Art Glass Company in 1905 and the company is still around today. Known for its colored glass, Fenton Art Glass Company created what is now called carnival glass in response to Tiffany's glass creations.
Lalique. Renee Lalique started his career in fine jewelry design, but began experimenting with glass in 1883. Lalique used leaded glass to create items like perfume bottles, figurines, vases and bookends. The company that Lalique formed is still operating in France today.
Costume Jewelry
Costume jewelry is a longtime favorite of collectors not only for its beauty, but because a collection can be started without the need to spend a lot of money. Although some pieces fetch in the thousands of dollars, you can start your own collection for far less. Manufacturers to look for when you shop include:
Eisenberg. Eisenberg began as a clothier and perfume maker in 1914 and didn't start to offer jewelry until the 1930s. It wasn't until 1940 however, that Eisenberg Jewelry was formally established. Eisenberg is well known for its elegance and combinations of colored rhinestones.
Weiss. Albert Weiss opened his company in 1942, but didn't enjoy the success he's known for today until the 1950s and 1960s. Weiss costume jewelry is known for its high quality and its use of Austrian rhinestones, faux pearls and glass stones. Weiss ceased production in 1971.
Collectible Dolls
Collecting dolls is far from child's play. Some dolls, including those you might have played with a child, are now worth thousands of dollars. If you're interested in collecting dolls, two of the most sought-after brands are:
Mattel. Believe it or not, today's Mattel was started in a garage shop in 1945 that has since grown into a worldwide corporation. The standout among Mattel's creations is the Barbie doll, first introduced in 1959 and followed by her male counterpart, Ken in 1961. These dolls along with related merchandise are highly collectible. Other Mattel dolls that collectors seek include Chatty Kathy and Cabbage Patch dolls.
Madame Alexander. Created by Beatrice Alexander Behrman in 1923, Madame Alexander dolls area still in production today. Among the most interesting dolls you might find are Scarlett, the first doll made based on a licensed character; Rosebud, produced between 1952 and 1953; and Miss America which was produced from 1941 to 1943.
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