If I was going to start collecting, I wouldn’t know where to start
Should it be Silver, Ceramics, Treen or examples of fine Art?

If Silver was the one I chose, the Hallmark is the key,
Assay Office, Silversmith, Sterling and the letter date, it’s there for you to see

And if the Hallmark is not apparent, it’s probably silver plate
An expert’s shrewd opinion would establish its true date.

Ceramics are an endless choice, Moorcroft, Poole, Majolica, and if
You like your pattern colours bright, and then it must be Clarice Cliff.

Why not include a piece of Glass by the Frenchman, Rene Lalique?
This would surely help to make your collection most unique.

Writing slopes and boxes. Marquetry and pokerwork with patterns well defined.
Diamonds, garnets, pearls, or Fluorite from Derbyshire where the Blue John Spa is mined.

This still leaves Rolex watches, Omega, Patek Phillipe, if you‘ve pockets that will suit,
Or trinkets with their Stanhope micro lens and photos quite minute.

Now you may have made your mind up, cash and space will affect which way to go.
Still undecided? Then relax, turn on T.V, and watch Bargain Hunt, or Flog It, or Fiona’s Antiques RoadShow.

© Norman Dengate