Archive for the 'Collectors Corner' Category

The Lucky People Know it; the Unlucky Ones Don’t. Which Are You?

Tuesday, March 9th, 2010

You may be a person that considers luck is real, or you may think it is hogwash. Still, some animals are believed by many societies consistently to be very fortunate. If you want to learn more about which animals others contribute to their collection of collectible figurines, read the rest of this article.

Dragons: Despite their sometimes scary appearance, dragons are universally regarded as being very lucky by just about all Asian cultures. There are countless stories about dragons that function as great protectors and honorable guardians of vast sums of gold and treasures. Those humans with righteous hearts are said to be recipients of the dragon’s magical powers. Many cultures try to “summon” these powers by dressing up as dragons during significant holidays. Asian societies understand that the dragon is very comfortable around water. Thus use tabletop fountains in the vicinity of your dragon artwork to enhance its properties.

Elephants: The lucky attributes of the elephant has been celebrated by almost every culture throughout the world. Yet its roots are found in Hindustan, thousands of years ago. The ancient indians worshipped Ganesha, a deity with a human body and an elephant head. He was said to be the path to the light of God. Since the early 20th century, those elephants that graciously point their trunks upwards, are the ones considered to bring the most luck. The best spot to set your elephant figurines or elephant sculptures, the ideal place is in a house’s hallway entrance region. You can then lift the trunk towards the heavens.

Horses: If good luck in your life requires the ability to be swift, fluid, and to be always moving forward, look no further than the horse. Have you ever noticed how easily horses get scared. This sixth sense into the spiritual domain is one reason the horse has been such an instrumental figure in creating modern civilization. It is important to know that Chinese Feng Shui practices advise highly against pointing a horse directly in the direction of a doorway.

In conclusion, recall that many people feel angel figurines, are lucky, some think that a lucky horseshoe brings good news, nevertheless history has demonstrated that these three animals are consistently the luckiest.

Numerous civilizations everywhere have been built upon the belief that our circumstances in life are dependent, in large part, upon how completely we yield to, and comply with, mysterious laws of nature. And of all the unique beliefs, 3 animals have shown up time and time again in every society as good luck symbols. All races, sexes and divisions of people of all periods of time have claimed to have received good fortune gains from horses, elephants, and dragons. Are you willing to accept this concept? Don’t conclude upon the answer to this question now. Just weigh in on it next time you see one of these animals in artwork or real life.

Collecting Antique Silver

Friday, July 10th, 2009

Collecting antique silver is rewarding and enjoyable. It can also be a very good investment. Every authentic item should have a sterling mark so keep your eye out for one. If there are no marks it may indicate that the piece was created before hallmarking was required.

You need do some studying and have a good understanding of the market before you venture into buying any pieces. This will prevent you from spending more than necessary or buying something that is not real antique silver.

Some collectors around the world are only interested in a particular era, maker or type of silver, such as tableware or jewelry. Specializing in one style or era can make you somewhat of an expert in that area, while collecting a wide variety of pieces will make your collection interesting and unique if carefully chosen.

When buying an item, make sure to check it over thoroughly. If an item has damage its value may be significantly reduced. Antique silver will often look used buy still retain its value; however you should tread carefully if there is any damage to the piece. Tarnish can often disguise defects so it’s important to watch for it and inspect each piece carefully before purchasing.

A table that has been set with silver cutlery, a fruit bowl and a beautiful candlestick can have a very stunning effect. It will look unique and add to the atmosphere. Silver can be purchased to add to your collection, sell at a profit or give as a gift.