What makes antiques so appealing to people? Factors like history, location, and interests attracts people to certain antiques. Claudia Reese, who has been studying, buying, and selling antiques for two decades,...
Claudia Reese, who has been studying, buying, and selling antiques for two decades, thinks some collectors like the connection to their family history. "Other people collect a certain kind of antique because they find it fascinating," says Reese, who owns 2nd Time Around Antique Mall in Twin Falls, Idaho. "Some collectors want things that are readily available while others collect things that are very hard to find, like a quest. You may collect antique furniture to furnish your home because it is a good investment and it gives you a cozy, warm feeling."
Family memories often trigger collections. For example, fond memories of grandmother's McCoy cookie jar shaped like a cat may inspire a collection of cookie jars, McCoy pottery, or cat collectibles. And thinking about the civic group or occupation that was important to grandfather may spur a collection that brings pleasant memories of his life. Postcard collectors often choose collections based on places in their family's history. In the 21st century many collectors copy postcards and frame them or use them on scrapbook pages.
Collecting antiques allows people to express their creativity in their home and in their wardrobe. Go through any shopping mall and look at the displays of dishes and other home decor available. Then think about the thousands of other stores with identical displays. Turn on any cable shopping channel and it won't be long before you see a presentation for a jewelry item that's selling by the thousands. Buying antiques for home decor and vintage jewelry for your wardrobe often saves you money and it always gives you a chance to express your unique personality.
Some high end collectors are choosing to invest in antiques. Many have experienced losses with more traditional methods of investing, and they like the chance to enjoy their purchases everyday. It's more enjoyable for them to sit on rare couches as they look at art prints while wearing breathtaking gems than it is to have a stack of paper in a lockbox. Many categories of antiques are rapidly increasing in value, but it takes real knowledge to know what to buy that will most likely give you or your heirs a good return on your money. Investing in antiques is not a get rich quick scheme. It requires study and work. Knowledge is definitely power in this type of investing.
Just plain fun is a great reason to collect antiques. Antique collecting can be a relaxing hobby. Searching out desirable items either in antique stores or at online auction sites can be an enjoyable pastime. It can add a new level of fun to traveling. Some collectors check the website of the Association of Collecting Clubs and join a collecting club. Clubs are available for everything from antique advertising to buttons to political memorabilia. For nominal dues, club members can enjoy online chats and annual conventions in interesting cities throughout the country. In addition to learning more about antiques they like to collect, club members make great friends with others who have the same collecting interests.
