Just realized thrift store ceramics are worth inspecting after I learned about pottery marks.

Now I can spot valuable pieces instantly.

4 comments

4 Comments

You mentioned learning about pottery marks. What resources did you use to get started with that? I've always found the variety of marks overwhelming. Are there particular manufacturers or time periods you focus on when scanning shelves? I once picked up a piece thinking it was junk, but it turned out to have a rare mark. Have you actually scored anything good since you started looking?

ivan_cooper1mo ago

I used to ignore marks until @the_pat's story made me look closer.

miller.rowan1mo ago

Started with the 'Dictionary of British Pottery and Porcelain Marks' after a seasoned collector recommended it. Honestly, it simplified the chaos by organizing marks alphabetically by manufacturer. Tbh, I mostly scan for mid-20th century British studios like Royal Doulton or Wedgwood because their marks are well-documented. Ngl, my best find was a Clarice Cliff saucer I got for a few bucks at a garage sale last year. It's wild how something that looks like junk can turn out to be valuable, just like your piece. Keeping a pocket guide with me when I'm out hunting has made a huge difference.

patricia_johnson1mo ago

Kovels' guide was my bible for years (I still have the 2010 edition, all sticky notes and coffee stains). It taught me to ignore the fancy fonts and look for the registry numbers, like the diamond-shaped marks for early 20th century British ware. Once you memorize a few key patterns, like the Royal Worcester crescent or the Spode imprints, the rest falls into place. I ruined my eyes squinting at tiny backstamps in dim thrift store lighting before I learned to carry a small magnifier (game changer, honestly). My biggest score was a mislabeled Moorcroft vase I found for ten dollars, all because I recognized the stylized 'M' in the mark.