Fragile Collectibles

Depending on your tastes, preferences, and interests, there are a variety of collectible items for you to enjoy. Even though many of these items can be used, the benefit of having collectibles is the fact that they are there to enjoy looking at. These collectibles are all considered fragile since they require special care. Here are some suggestions for those seeking new collectibles:

Salt & pepper shakers. These come in all sizes, shapes, and materials. Many individuals collect these to display on their shelves or in their display cases. Materials consist of porcelain, plaster, and stoneware - among other materials. Whatever material they are made of, salt and pepper shakers will provide much enjoyment. Some collectors like buying them as souvenirs to remember their trips by. Other collectors buy ones that reflect their interest. For instance, for dog lovers, salt and pepper shakers of dogs would be great. Use your imagination!

Shot glasses. Here is another potential collectible items area. These make great souvenir items to remember trips by. For instance, for the history buff, pick up a shot glass with the state emblem and demographic information on it. Or, have your friends pick up a show glass for you during their trips. Whenever you look at the glass, you will remember who bought it for you.

PEZ dispensers. Even though these collector items look indestructable, if used roughly, they head will pop off. These old standbys make a great collection. Whatever character (fictional or nonfictional) that interests you, there is bound to be a PEZ dispenser available.

Old time kitchen utensils. Kitchen utensils dating from 1920-1960 make great collector's items. The materials are usually very brittle and must be handled with care. Some households like to decorate their kitchens using these collectibles as wall hangings. Wire hand beaters, metal flour sifters, and cheese graters are just samples of the variety of 'old time' kitchen utensils one can find.

Figurines. With a range of sizes, shapes, and subjects, figures have been filling curio shelves for years. Usually made out of porcelain, these collectibles make for a great presentation on display shelves, in display cases, or on bookshelves. Dogs, cats, elephants, or birds - whatever is your particular interest - can be found in a figurine.

The drawback to a porcelain figurine is the fact they can break, chip, or become disfigured easily. Plus, they need dusted regularly with special care handling. So, if any kids are around, the figures need to be out of reach.

On the positive side, however, you can teach your kids to be careful around them and instill a sense of respect for property.

Natively attired dolls. Adorned in native/cultural attire, dolls have been collected for years around the world. These dolls usually come in a holding/display case to protect their fine garments. Many times the dolls have a sash with the country name on it. While traveling around the world, these dolls make great reminders of the trip and country's culture. These collectibles, however, can be rather pricey. They last for years, however, if properly taken care of. Many times collectors can find a gold mind of native dolls at estate sales.

Plates/Commemorative Plates. Everyone has seen the decorated plates displayed on the walls. They either follow a theme or depict a point in time. These make great souvenirs for the collector. Whatever your chosen interest, there is bound to be a plate to memorialize it.

Enjoy any of these fragile collectibles for years to come.