Size, Color and Condition Set Bead Values

Question: Can you provide some hints on what to look for in Indian beadwork?--V.H.

Answer: Generally, collectors say they desire colored beads rather than clear ones.

Another general rule is that the larger the bead, the more valuable it could be.

Also pay attention to the condition of the beads and the fabric to which they’re attached. If the condition is poor, then the value will drop.

Rising prices of Indian crafts mean that you may find yourself spending big bucks to acquire what you want. As a result, this is no place for the beginning collector to guess what’s authentic and what isn’t. It’s safer to buy only from reputable dealers or directly from the crafters.

Q: There have been reports among collectors that Wild Turkey has introduced a new decanter series. What do you know about it?--H.S.

A: According to information we recently received, the new series is called Habitat and consists of two decanters that fit together.

One decanter, released in June, shows a female wild turkey drinking at a forest pool. We don’t have information on the second one, scheduled for release next year.

Unlike other Wild Turkey series, Habitat will be sold unfilled. Price on the decanter already released is $80; the other will be sold for $35.

For further information, write to Austin Nichols, Wild Turkey Collectors, 1 Wild Turkey Road, P.O. Box 175, Wynnewood, Pa. 19096, or call toll-free, (800) 223-0902.

Mailbag

On Sept. 25, the American Society of Camera Collectors will have its Fall Used and Collectible Camera Show at Machinists Hall, 2600 Victory Blvd., Burbank. Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $4, with $1 discount coupons available at most camera shops and photo labs.

“People are asked to bring in their old cameras for a free appraisal or for sale, swap or trade,” writes the group’s president, Gene Lester. “This Burbank show, which is held semiannually, has been voted the most popular show on the West Coast by the attending exhibitors who come from all over the world.”

For further information, telephone Lester at (818) 769-6160.

Calendar

The Los Angeles Historical Bottle Club is presenting its annual Antique and Collectible Show and Sale Sept. 24 and 25, at Temple Beth Ami, 3508 E. Temple Way, West Covina. Hours: Saturday, 6:30 to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $1.50 for both days.

Besides bottles, the show will feature post cards, advertisements, photographs, boxes, Coca-Cola items, tins and telephones.

For more information, call (818) 332-6751 or (818) 988-5211.