6 Ornaments Every Collector Should Add to Their Collection (2024)

1. Indent: Originally designed to catch and reflect the candlelight of Victorian Christmas trees, fancy indented shapes had a resurgence in the 1950s when this groovy, Atomic Age number debuted. (They fell out of favor the following decade when more subdued looks became popular.) Value: $8.

2. Cardboard Cap: World War II rationing restricted the use of metal, so ornaments made during that period have now-coveted cardboard caps and string hangers. They also featured simpler designs, lacking the shiny "silvered" interior of pre-war glass bulbs. Value: $20.

3. Cotton: Constructed from cotton batting, this style, popular from the 1890s to the 1920s, is virtually unbreakable and was often given to children for decoration and play. This skier's porcelain face indicates it was manufactured by noted firm Heubach, making it one of the most des-irable types of cottons. Value: $525.

4. Glass: The first glass ornaments were made in Germany in the 1800s. (Small specimens from that per-iod now sell for $400.) This 1940s example was made by Shiny Brite, the world's largest ornament company at the time. Originally sold at Woolworth for as little as 2 cents for six, Shiny Brites are still popular today. Value: $12.

5. Diorama: Made in Europe and Japan, this 1950s style displays festive holiday scenes. Italian varieties such as this deer and elf vignette command the highest price. Value: $25.

6. Dresden: These embossed paper pieces derive their name from the German city in which they were crafted. Dresdens were fabricated from the 1880s to the 1910s; production ceased when the town was bombed during World War I. Due to their scarcity and extremely delicate materials, they are the most expensive ornaments on the market. With its elaborate tack and gilded florets, this horse head is a prime example. Value: $2,750.

Ornament Resources:

BETTY BELL: Fine antiques, such as Dresdens and cottons. bettybell.com

SO INTO VINTAGE: Decorations from the 1940s and 1950s. peppermintbark.etsy.com

THIS, THAT AND CHRISTMAS: Wide selection of early-20th-century items. thisthatandchristmas.etsy.com

Photo: Brian Woodco*ck

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