Paul's History Gems

Trader Chris Staff

Diamonds are Forever—and so are Rubies, Sapphires, and Garnets

Christmas is the greatest gift-giving season of the year. No other holiday comes close; weddings are personally scheduled, graduations...

Trader Chris Staff

Am I Blue? Willow, That Is - by Paul Thompson

The British invented Blue Willow, too. In 1780 English engraver Thomas Minton created the design and sold it to potter Thomas Turner. Chine

Trader Chris Staff

OF LEEKS, THISTLES, AND PRIME MINISTERS

Tobies are caricature ceramic figures, often wearing 18th-century costume. On a traditional toby, a tricorn hat forms the spout, sometimes w