Crystal Clear

I am REALLY suffering from Spring Fever...My Favorite type of fever!!! Everything just seems to sparkle and shine ....new leaves, blue skies....gorgeous southern temperatures and bright colors of nature.

Cut glass and crystal have ALWAYS fascinated me...I am drawn to the spectrum of light and the good ole...."ROY G. BIV" that break into the colors that we see when we use a prism.(Ok...my science teaching comes out every now and then.) Nevertheless...there is something spring-like in the beauty fine crystal.
Enjoy these pictures of beautiful items that we have here at Pickwick Antiques...so many ways to incorporate crystal into your design whether you are more inclined to antiques or modern decor. We have recently received many of the pieces that you see here.

 The prices for most that you see are SO REASONABLE that they do not stay in the store very long. Crystal is the perfect gift for weddings, graduation, birthdays, anniversaries, and "Just Because" gifts.

Shine on!!!   Please feel free to contact me at pks@knology.net.

Details in Design...

I have ALWAYS been fascinated with the construction of things...anything architectural or structural... and , of course, design in general. I get it honestly...My Texas roots go deep in these areas. I am using my background in history or furniture everyday...I loved the courses that I took in college in my design field but ... application is the best form of learning....NEVER stop learning about the things you are passionate about!

There is always something exciting to learn when it comes to antiques...I hope that I will always be a student!

Have a great day!!!

Finding An Appraiser

Anyone in the antique business will often receive calls about the value of their antique piece or family heirloom. While each dealer has their area of expertise and knowledge...no one is familiar with all areas of antiques and collectables.

Many times...someone will call or come by to find out "how much a particular item is worth." I must honestly tell them...we are not appraisers and are not qualified to give an estimate or appraisal. Often, someone will inquire about the value of a family piece of heirloom, in order to sell that item. Still...antique dealers are not necessarily qualified to give that information.

As there are specialists in other fields, so are there specialists in appraisals. Appraisers will sometimes specialize in a particular area of knowledge from fine art, porcelain, silver, furniture to very specific areas.

Helpful Hints:

• Do your homework. ..Find a certified appraiser (ISA.International Society of Appraisers, American Association of Appraisers)
• Be prepared to pay a fee for consultation as well as for time spent.
• Check online  for certified appraisers that are knowledgable about your items.

The process usually goes like this: 

1. Consultation( Ask about fees and hourly charges)
2. Invoice(Cost of Appraisal) Once agreed upon ...the next steps are as follows:
3. Research /Valuation
4. Documentation
5. Fees are usually determined by the amount of time spent and the assessment of the piece.

Imagine the time it took to make these beautiful porcelain boxes!

Baskets of porcelain, silver and majolica....garlands, swags, cherubs and ribbon....delicately crafted flowers and blooms....brightly colored birds....Beautiful things that add that special touch of spring to any decor. Enjoy the beauty of these items that I have chosen to show for spring.

AH.....SPRING!!

I love Spring and anything related to the Spring season.  Although our southern springs quickly turn to summer, the interlude is a time to embrace renewal and resurrection both physically and spiritually. The Earth reminds us daily of that renewal and wonder. The Easter Season is the most treasured of my religious celebrations...Resurrection and Renewal ...and a pure celebration of promises made and kept.

This beautiful morning was the day after the tornado-rampage two weekends ago. Notice the azaleas and calm waters of the bay in Destin from the beautiful home of my beautiful friend. I was reminded of the Lord as he calmed the seas...and the reminder of the fact that We are not in control!