How much is a carnival glass bowl worth?
With its stunningly beautiful colors, iridescent glaze, and endless variety, carnival glass is a popular collector’s item that used to be given away for free. Today, it’s common for single pieces to fetch $30 to $50 at auction with especially desirable items selling for much more.
When was carnival glass made?
Carnival glass originated as a glass called ‘Iridill’, produced beginning in 1908 by the Fenton Art Glass Company (founded in 1905). Iridill was inspired by the fine blown art glass of such makers as Tiffany and Steuben, but did not sell at the anticipated premium prices and was subsequently discounted.
Does real carnival glass have seams?
Taking its roots in America, carnival glass is simply press-molded glass with an iridescent finish. First manufactured in early 1905, the intricate pattern work and stunning colors captured the Art Nouveau aesthetic perfectly. Most patterns were inspired by nature or geometry, detailed to hide the seams from the mold.
How can you tell how old a carnival glass is?
Look for the manufacturer’s mark, although keep in mind many companies did not place a mark on their carnival glass. The older the carnival glass, the more likely it is to have a rusty look from the metal oxide used to create it aging over time.
How do you authenticate carnival glass?
The most common ways to identify the glass are:
- Look at the coloring and sheen for the iridescent rainbow effect.
- Check out the base of the glass, which should not be thick or weighty.
- Look for the manufacturer’s mark, although keep in mind many companies did not place a mark on their carnival glass.
How do you tell if carnival glass is real?
Is carnival glass valuable?
In recent history, carnival glass has become a sought-after collector’s item, and while many pieces can be acquired for less than $50, rarer pieces can sell for thousands of dollars.
How do you know if carnival glass is valuable?
Does carnival glass have any value?
How can you tell if carnival glass is authentic?
What exactly is carnival glass?
Carnival glass is moulded or pressed glass, always with a pattern and always with a shiny, metallic, ‘iridescent’ surface shimmer.
What is the rarest carnival glass piece?
by John Valentine. “Hobnail” Aqua Opal Carnival, rarest most sought-after color of old carnival, prized above all others by the connoisseur. This limited edition color was made by Fenton in 1982 for Levay Glass Distributing Company. There were only 9 pieces in the offering in the Hobnail pattern.
Carnival glass is highly collectible. Prices vary widely, with some pieces worth very little, while other, rare items command thousands of dollars.
