Articles Index

The Real McCoys: Is it Authentic or is it a Fake?
McCoy and Cookie Jars go together and because they do, many unscrupulous sellers try to take advantage of collectors. This is especially prevalent through Internet sales when buyers think they are bidding or purchasing an authentic jar from the real McCoy company.

What is Chinoiserie?
Chinoiserie refers to an artistic style that reflects Chinese influence. With its elaborate decoration, intricate patterns and fanciful décor, Chinoiserie’s popularity peaked in the mid-18th century.

Reproductions: The Story Behind the New McCoy
Reproductions -- what other word can cause more anxiety in the hearts of collectors. New collectors are usually the ones that are deceived by the new-old jars. But some reproductions are so good that they can fool even the longtime collector. How do you protect yourself? Easy, E-D-U-C-A-T-I-O-N! Read everything you can, browse auctions, ask questions, measure and don't pay big bucks if you are unsure.

How to Date Antique and Collectible Porcelain
One of the fascinating things about collecting porcelain is getting it home, taking out a magnifying glass and deciphering the marks on its underside. Find out more about the markings and companies that made it.

Crazy for Collecting -- Blue Pottery
Walking into Rachel Armstron's Mystic, CT, parlor is like walking into a sea of cornflowers. Rachel is one of the winners of the Crazy for Collecting contest for eBay live.