Because of the mass production, many imperfections like bubbles, molding flaws and inconsistency of color were quite common. You will see seams on depression glass. Because of the fast production, the glass would slip in the mold causing noticeable seams.
You know you've found genuine antique glassware if you see small bubbles throughout the piece, seams in the lid, and lines on the bottom. The glass should also feel thin and delicate, as reproductions are usually much thicker.
Depression glass, like other mass-produced glass, has humble origins and was made for everyday use. Unlike cut crystal with its perfect lines, Depression-era drinkware and serveware has mold lines (i.e. those seams down the center), bubbles, rounded edges and other imperfections.
In summary, depression glass is known for its pastel colors and practical use during the Great Depression, while carnival glass is recognized for its vibrant, iridescent finish and decorative appeal.
The most sought after pattern of Depression glass is arguably Royal Lace, which was made by the Hazel-Atlas Glass Company. This pattern was manufactured in green, pink, crystal, and most notably, cobalt blue.
You will see seams on depression glass. Because of the fast production, the glass would slip in the mold causing noticeable seams. According to Invaluable, the flaws tend to be cherished by collectors today and do not negatively effect the value of the pieces.
Determining Depression Glass Value. The value of Depression glass has been rising steadily in recent years, yet the cost is still quite reasonable. A cake plate could sell for as little as $13, a sugar bowl for $7, and an attractive footed tumbler for $25.
Seam mark. A slight, narrow ridge on a glass object, which indicates that it has been made in a mold. The seams appear where gaps in the joins between parts of the mold have permitted molten glass to seep during formation. On well-made pieces, the seam marks are usually smoothed away by grinding or fire polishing.
The chart accompanying this statement notes that bottles made before 1860 have a side mold seam ending on the shoulder or low on the neck, between 1860 and 1880 the seam ends just below the finish, between 1880 and 1900 the seam ends within the finish just below the finish rim (top lip surface), and those made after ...
Muntins can be found in doors, windows, and furniture, typically in Western styles of architecture. Muntins divide a single window sash or casement into a grid system of small panes of glass, called "lights" or "lites".
Some of the most collectible types & styles of antique and vintage glassware include Depression Glass, Carnival Glass, Milk Glass, Moonstone, Hobnail Glass, and Jadeite. One of the most popular styles of antique glass was a Hen on Nest, also known as Animal Dishes because of the variety of animals they come in.
Colored glassware of the Depression era was produced during the late 1920s and into the 1930s; some authors and researchers extend the timeframe even longer, at least into the 1940s. It was made by many glass companies over an extended period of time and included a never-ending array of shapes, sizes and colors.
Of the various types of Depression Glass, the more desirable and unique pieces are those that are UV light reactant. Glass that illuminates or has “Fluorescence” when lit with a black light has been treated with various elements. These elements produce a glow when their atoms absorb the UV energy of a black light.
In fact, a report published by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission in 2001 stated that uranium glass is considered to be safer than household electronics. Despite this, it is recommended that you avoid eating or drinking out of uranium glass objects, as you can end up ingesting small fragments of radioactive material.
Pink and red (cranberry) glass is typically the most valuable and was made using gold oxide, while blue (made using cobalt salts), green (uranium), and yellow or amber (sulphur) tend to command lower prices.
As mentioned, imperfections in the glassware due to daily use during the era that the glassware was originally produced do not necessarily affect value, or if they do, it is very small.
The inexpensive glassware was further distinguishable by the rainbow of colors it was available in, ranging from grassy greens to glowing ambers and petal pinks. Depression glass is also marked by imperfections, like air bubbles and uneven saturation in color, because of the quick manufacturing speed.
If you examine a piece of pressed glass you will always find either two, three or four seams running through the glass, although sometimes the seams were well hidden in the pattern. The number of mold lines in a piece of glass does not determine the age.
Carnival glass typically has an iridescent appearance. Depression glass tends to be one color rather than multi-colored. Depression glass can also be white, which, in this case, is considered a color.
As they pushed the molten glass into the pattern lines are left from the mold in the glass. Some molds had 2 seams, others had four etc. This happens to be a footed piece. There you can see the feet.
Color and pattern, which helps identify both the rareness of the piece as well as its manufacturer. Some of the most valuable colors are cherry red, black amethyst, and ice green.