Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Glass
The history of Depression Glass is actually quite fascinating and it is a true testimony to its appeal that decades later it is still in high demand. These colorful glass items were made to be cheap, they had to be in order to sell them during this time period. If you are not familiar with Depression Glass, here is a brief guide to help you spot these rare treasures.
First, Depression Glass is quite heavy and although it was considered to be cheap glass, these items were made to last. They became popular following the market crash of 1929, when the United States was in the throes of the Great Depression. During this time period fortunes were lost and many families found themselves on the brink of financial ruin.
At this point, many people could not afford to purchase the niceties of life and it was a struggle just to get the things that they needed. In order to be able to continue selling products, many companies began developing cheap glassware, which would later be known as Depression Glass. These glass items were made out of the cheapest glass possible and the molds that were used were often imperfect.
However, these imperfections are now considered to be desirable. Since costs were kept extremely low during the manufacturing process, the vast majority of Depression Glass does not have a maker’s mark and generally there are no identifying marks whatsoever. The pieces are characterized by their heavy weight and the interesting but simple patterns that are featured on them.
Another characteristic of Depression Glass is that the pieces were generally made to be very colorful. You can find virtually every color in the rainbow, from blue, to yellow, red, green and even purple. These colors were vibrant and happy and reminded people of better times. In fact, many items made during this time period reflect the overall mood of the country and the grasping of small things like something colorful to keep hope alive.
Today, Depression Glass is extremely popular. It is rare to find a full set, but most collectors try to accumulate as many pieces in one color as they can. You can frequently find Depression Glass at local flea markets, at auction or online. However, it is important to make sure that you are getting authentic glass.
Remember, the piece should be slightly imperfect, there should be no insignia on the glass and the colors should be a bit faded due to age. If you find Depression Glass that is overly vibrant, very well made or carries an insignia of the manufacturer, there is a high probability that the piece may not be authentic.
Collecting Depression Glass is a great way to commemorate this troubled time in the history of the United States where little things like happy colors on glassware helped the populace through those dark days. Many pieces are actually worth a small fortune, so keep your eye out for a great deal. You never know what you may find.
Photo Credits: Marco Arment
Originally posted 2008-08-18 05:00:55. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Antique Singer Sewing Machine Antiques -> Sewing -> Machines and Machine Parts If you love sewing collectibles and are trying to build up your collection, one of the best additions you can find is an antique Singer sewing machine. These machines can enhance any personal collection and may even be the focal point in...... -
Victorian Furniture Dealers -> Periods-Styles -> Victorian Though its peak popularity was during the late 19th century in America, Victorian furniture still holds quite an appeal for many people today. This style of furniture is distinguishable by the time period in which it was created and the methods that were used. The...... -
Curio Cabinet Dealers -> Furniture -> Cabinets-Armoires-Cupboards A curio cabinet is a piece of furniture that encompasses so many different varieties that it's hard to sum up in a short space. The thing each one has in common is that it allows for “curios” to be displayed. Knick-knacks, trinkets, collectibles and other...... -
Antique Doors Antiques -> Architectural and Garden -> Doors Antique doors have much to offer the private collector and many of these, depending on the materials used, and the designer may actually be worth quite a lot of money. Whether you are looking for a collectible that you can put to good...... -
Art Deco Furniture Antiques -> Periods and Styles -> Art Deco Art deco furniture antiques are highly sought after and are often very unique pieces. If you love this time period, or if you are simply looking for furniture that transcends the every day mundane design, art deco furniture is the perfect choice.......
Related Websites -
Skiing Goggles It is truly dangerous for anyone to go skiing without having the right equipment. If you go skiing without the proper equipment you can end up hurting yourself severely. Skiing goggles is one such piece of equipment that is vitally important to your safety when you go skiing. You need...... -
Save Time, Money and Space in Over 80 Ways If you're looking for handy gadgets, tools and various items that can save you time, money or space (or all three!) this list of more than 80 top products is just what you need. Everyone's got saving money on their minds these days- whether your at the grocery store, or...... -
Paper Money Chinese Collections There are several different types of paper money a person can collect. People become attracted to certain types of paper money over others for various reasons. Some people may find that they are attracted to the look for certain type of currency over another. Some collectors may find that they...... -
Introduction to the Trumpet, pt 2 From the long mouthpieces that the slide trumpet was known for, developed the idea of creating a separate mouthpiece for natural trumpets. The basic design for the mouthpiece during the 16th century and the 17th century was a cupped shape that had a sharp edge and a flat rim. There...... -
Types of Furniture Fabric If you are looking to purchase new furniture or if you are thinking about having a piece reupholstered, you will need to decide upon a fabric type for the furniture. And, if you have never shopped for furniture fabric before, you need to know that this involves a great deal......
