If I were an art collector, I'd be slipping into the "Celtic Cross Exhibit" at Walker's Celtic Jewelry to scoop up some pieces before anyone else knew to look. I figured I'd see a bunch of photos and jewelry...to be truthful, what I thought I'd see was an advertising ploy. I thought it would be just the usual store inventory, with all the crosses gathered together to create a so-called exhibit. What I found were sculptures, prints, boxes, cups, wall hangings...all shipped in from around the country and from Scotland and Ireland. Some pieces are on loan from private collections, but many are for sale.

Andrew McGavin's zig-zaggy resin-bonded steel boxes begged for a look inside. And inside there were treasures of bronze medallions. The quaichs, a two-handled shallow cup for toasting, were beautifully worked sterling. There were also enameled pill boxes, kilt accessories, broaches, and claddaghs (Irish wedding rings representing heart, hands, and crown). I was taken by a beautiful piece of green marble from the Island of Iona.

I also found out that Walker's has quite a large internet following. Son Andrew watches over the Park Avenue store, while father Steven makes much of the jewelry. Located in Andover, New York, he gets orders from around the world.

Next up: Abilene