History of Cut Glass Collectibles Cut glass collecting blends craft, history and detective work. This guide explains the main types of collectible glass, how to identify genuine cut or crystal, and practical ways to date pieces for collectors and sellers. What is cut glass and why it matters Cut glass is glass decorated by cutting facets with abrasive wheels to create prismatic surfaces that refract light. Traditional hand‑cut pieces are luxury items because the process is labour‑intensive and produces sharp,...

The Legacy of Wedgwood Pottery: A Tradition of Innovation and Elegance Wedgwood pottery is a distinguished symbol of British ceramic artistry, celebrated for its pioneering craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Founded in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood in Staffordshire, England, the brand has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and classic design. Origins and Historical Significance Josiah Wedgwood, often hailed as the "Father of English Potters," revolutionized the pottery industry with his inventive techniques and dedication to excellence. His creation of Jasperware, a...

The Legacy of Royal Stafford Pottery: Crafting Timeless Elegance Royal Stafford pottery stands as a proud emblem of British ceramic artistry, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs. Originating in the heart of Staffordshire, England, this pottery brand has captivated collectors and enthusiasts worldwide with its delicate patterns and enduring quality. Origins and Evolution The story of Royal Stafford began in the early 20th century, rooted in a region famous for its rich clay deposits and skilled artisans. Over...

Royal Albert pottery is renowned worldwide for its exquisite floral designs, fine bone china, and rich heritage that dates back to the late 19th century. Collectors and enthusiasts alike cherish Royal Albert pieces for their delicate beauty and enduring quality. History and Origins Founded in 1896 in England, Royal Albert began as a brand under the prestigious Thomas C. Wild & Co., later becoming part of the Royal Doulton group. The brand quickly gained fame for its intricate hand-painted floral...

Tea cards are one of those quietly nostalgic treasures that evoke childhood, kitchen cupboards and swap sessions at school. Tucked inside everyday packets of tea, these small illustrated cards have become highly collectable in their own right. This guide explores the history of tea cards, how they evolved, the role of Brooke Bond and PG Tips, and how to start or grow a tea card collection today. What are tea cards? Tea cards are small, illustrated cards that were issued...

Founding and Early Years Hornsea Pottery was established in 1949 in the seaside town of Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, by brothers Colin and Desmond Rawson. They began by making small plaster souvenirs for tourists before moving into clay production with the support of local businessman Philip Clappison. The Role of John Clappison Philip’s son, John Clappison, became a pivotal designer. His Elegance range of vases and dishes (1955) was a breakthrough success, followed by innovative lines such as Tricorn...

Origins and Early Years Royal Doulton’s story begins in 1815 when John Doulton invested his savings into a small pottery in Lambeth, London. Initially producing utilitarian stoneware, the company soon shifted toward decorative ceramics under the guidance of his son, Henry Doulton. Innovation and Artistic Collaboration Lambeth School of Art Influence From the mid‑19th century, Royal Doulton became renowned for its innovative glazing techniques and collaborations with artists from the Lambeth School of Art. By the 1880s, over 200 artists...

Early Beginnings Postcards have a surprisingly rich history, evolving alongside postal services, printing innovations, and social trends. Their story begins in the 19th century, when the idea of sending a simple card without an envelope was first proposed. The First Known Postcard In 1840, British writer Theodore Hook mailed himself a caricature card bearing a Penny Black stamp—considered the earliest known postcard. Legalization in the United States By 1861, the U.S. Congress legalized privately printed cards, and John P. Charlton...