My parents often dragged me kicking and screaming to auctions. They loved antiques. Little did I know that this would cause me to catch the antique bug. As a teenager, some of my friends were actually impressed that I knew what a chamberstick was. Eventually I did apprentice under him and after college, I left his company to go on my own.
Collectors have their own preferences.
The only trend I have noticed is that these individuals usually stick to what they like. Others may collect only Victorian silver plate. This is a tough one. It's a three-way tie. Disposal damage to flatware, putting things in the dishwasher, keeping your beautiful pieces in storage instead of using them.