The Precious Moments brand, renowned for its endearing depictions of childhood innocence and heartfelt sentiments, has extended its artistry to a charming series of birthstone angel figurines. These collectibles, produced by Enesco, offer a unique intersection of the popular figurine market and the traditional symbolism of birthstones. While the provided sources do not detail the gemological properties of the stones themselves, they illuminate the history, collecting aspects, and cultural significance of these particular figurines. This article will explore the Precious Moments birthstone angel series, its place within the broader Precious Moments collection, and its appeal to collectors.
A Legacy of Sentiment
Precious Moments figurines originated with the artistic vision of Samuel J. Butcher, who began creating the characters in the early 1970s. The brand quickly gained popularity for its large-eyed children and emotionally resonant scenes. The figurines became highly collectible, with a dedicated following that continues to this day. Enesco, the company responsible for producing and distributing Precious Moments, has consistently expanded the range of offerings, incorporating various themes and designs to maintain collector interest. The introduction of birthstone angels represents one such expansion, capitalizing on the enduring appeal of both birthstone lore and the established aesthetic of Precious Moments.
The Birthstone Angel Collection
The birthstone angel series, part of the “Little Moments” collection, features a figurine for each month of the year, each adorned with a crystal accent representing the corresponding birthstone. Source [2] specifically details the “Little Moments December” figurine, priced at $25.00, and confirms its porcelain construction and original packaging. Source [3] highlights the “Foundations May Monthly Angel Figurine,” featuring an emerald crystal and the inscription, “Every year is a new beginning…every day, a gift.” This demonstrates the consistent theme of inspirational messaging alongside the birthstone representation. The artist, Karen Hahn, is credited with inspiring the collection with uplifting words of hope and wisdom.
These figurines are not simply decorative objects; they are intended to be meaningful gifts, symbolizing the unique qualities associated with each birth month. The combination of the Precious Moments style – characterized by its sweet, sentimental imagery – and the personalized touch of a birthstone creates a collectible with broad appeal.
Collecting Precious Moments: Market Trends and Values
The market for Precious Moments figurines is well-established, with a robust secondary market for both current and retired pieces. Source [4] provides a snapshot of sales data, listing various figurines with their asking prices. The data reveals a wide range of values, from $3.00 for a “Fence” figurine from 1993 to $80.00 for a “A Friend Is Someone Who Cares” figurine from 1989. This price variation is influenced by several factors, including the figurine’s age, rarity, condition, and demand.
While the provided data does not specifically isolate the birthstone angel series, it indicates that older figurines and those with unique designs tend to command higher prices. The “20 Years and the Vision is Still the Same” figurine from 1998 is listed at $65.00, suggesting that commemorative pieces also hold value. The presence of multiple listings for the same figurine (“A Friend Is Someone Who Cares”) at different prices ($70.00 and $80.00) illustrates the dynamic nature of the collector’s market.
Beyond Figurines: Expanding the Precious Moments Universe
The Precious Moments brand extends beyond porcelain figurines. Source [5] details a diverse range of products, including figurines, snow globes, necklaces, teddy bears, and collaborations with Disney, Sesame Street, and Peanuts. The mention of birthstone angel snow globes further expands the availability of birthstone-themed items within the Precious Moments line. This diversification demonstrates Enesco’s strategy to cater to a wider audience and maintain brand relevance. The availability of personalization options also adds to the appeal, allowing collectors to create unique and customized pieces.
Hallmark, as noted in Source [1], also offers a range of angel figurines, including those incorporating birthstones, indicating a broader market trend for angel-themed collectibles. The variety of materials used – concrete, terra-cotta, porcelain, and metal – caters to different aesthetic preferences and budgets.
The Appeal of Angel Figurines
The enduring popularity of angel figurines stems from a combination of religious symbolism, aesthetic appeal, and emotional resonance. Angels are often associated with protection, guidance, and hope, making them comforting and inspiring figures. The delicate craftsmanship and artistic detail of angel figurines add to their visual appeal, while their sentimental value makes them cherished possessions.
The Precious Moments birthstone angels specifically tap into the personalized aspect of birthstone lore, offering a unique and meaningful gift for loved ones. The combination of the angelic imagery with the individual significance of each birthstone creates a collectible that is both aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant.
Care and Preservation of Precious Moments Figurines
Given that the figurines are primarily made of porcelain, careful handling and cleaning are essential to preserve their value and beauty. While the sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions, general guidelines for porcelain collectibles apply. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the delicate finish. Gentle dusting with a soft cloth is recommended for regular maintenance. For more thorough cleaning, a mild soap solution can be used, followed by thorough rinsing and drying. It is also advisable to protect figurines from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as these can cause fading or cracking.
Conclusion
The Precious Moments birthstone angel series represents a charming and collectible addition to the broader Precious Moments universe. These figurines combine the brand’s signature sentimental style with the personalized symbolism of birthstones, creating a unique and meaningful gift for collectors and loved ones alike. While the provided sources offer a limited glimpse into the specifics of the series, they highlight its appeal, market trends, and the enduring popularity of both Precious Moments figurines and angel-themed collectibles. The series demonstrates Enesco’s ability to adapt to market demands and expand its product line while maintaining the core values of sentimentality and artistic quality that have defined the Precious Moments brand for decades.