Vintage Sweater Guard and Auction Houses

Last weeks goodies are things I'm not sure I'll ever wear, but could never give away: a sweater chain and these ginormous earrings.

The gold sweater guard has mother of pearl finishings and is unmarked.  The earrings are unmarked as well.  Ok, now that I look at them on the screeen...really look at them, I think maybe I could rock those earrings with jeans and a t-shirt on one of my "I'm trying, but really trying to pretend not to" days.
Anyway on to the second half of my post.  Recently I've noticed a ton of new folks in the auction houses I hang out. Shows like Auction Kings, Pawn Stars and the like are getting people shopping in new places. AWESOME! Not everyone who shows up is a bidder, but still it's good to see folks getting out there.  On the other hand, some of those who are bidding are placing insane amounts of money on everyday stuff, while the real goodies fly beneath the radar.  Dude!  If it's your fancy, go for it.  I know what it's like to see something you want, even though you know you'll never use it (erm...see the paragraph above), but I can't see dropping $2120 on an old book, just because it is old without having done any prior research.

That particular book sold was not rare, pretty easily found in antique book circles for around $500-$650, but I guess he got wrapped up in the thrill of the chase.  On the other hand, he felt like a king for having won it and I guess that's pretty awesome too.