Vogue dolls

Sun., Aug. 20, 2006

Larry Cox King Features Syndicate

Q: I collect Vogue dolls and wonder if there is a good reference book so I can establish values for the ones that I have in my collection. — Stella, Naperville, Ill.

A: One of the better reference books is the Collector’s Encyclopedia of Vogue Dolls by Judith Izen and Carol Stover, published by Collector Books and now in its second edition. The expanded edition features 200 additional photos for a total of 1,600 images, with updated information and values. Besides the famous Ginny and her many outfits, there are special sections devoted to Jill, Ginnette, Jan, Jeff, Baby Dear, Brikette, Toodles, Wee Imp, Li’l Imp and all the other Vogue products crafted, along with their outfits and accessories. You can order it directly from the publisher at P.O. Box 3009, Paducah, KY 42002, and 1-800-646-5420.

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Q: My dad was stationed in Hawaii during the 1950s. He purchased several pieces of elaborate shell and jade jewelry. Is there an outlet where I can find out how much they might be worth? — Ken, Havre, Mont.

A: Brenda Reichel is a member of the International Society of Appraisers and knows a great deal about shell jewelry. Write to her in care of Carats & Karats Fine Jewelry, 1254 South King St., Honolulu, HI 96814. A jade expert is Don Kay, Mason-Kay Jade Jewelry, P.O. Box 65015, Denver, CO 80206.

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Q: I have several pieces of porcelain marked “Bohemia” and “Czechoslovakian.” I would like to find out more about this type of decorative art and, perhaps, add to my collection. — Wanda, Springdale, Ark.

A: Cheryl Goyda is president of the Czechoslovakian Collectors Association, P.O. Box 137, Hopeland, PA 17533. This is a non-profit group organized to foster the collecting and aesthetic appreciation of art glass, ceramics and other decorative arts of Austria, Bohemia and Czechoslovakia from the years 1850 through the 1930s. One of the better dealers specializing in this type of collectible is David Fein, South Beach Antiques, 736 13th St., 102, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

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