Mount Washington Glass: Separating the Real McCoys from the Faux Fosters
Ah, Mount Washington Glass. The name evokes images of Victorian parlors, shimmering vases, and glass so fancy it would make Liberace raise an eyebrow. But here's the rub: with all this vintage loveliness comes the age-old question - is that treasure you found at a thrift store the real deal, or just a cunning reproduction?
Fear not, my fellow thrifting enthusiasts and antique aficionados! We're about to embark on a whimsical journey (complete with a few giggles) to learn how to identify the true Mount Washington glass from its imposters.
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| How To Identify Mt Washington Glass |
The Paper Chase (Not That Kind of Chase)
Let's start with the holy grail of Mount Washington identification: a paper label. These little beauties would have been stuck on the piece back in the day, proudly proclaiming its Mount Washington heritage. But time, alas, is not kind to paper labels, and most have gracefully disintegrated into the dustbin of history.
Don't despair! The lack of a label doesn't automatically mean your find is a fake. It just means we have to dig a little deeper.
Shape Up!
Mount Washington wasn't shy about creating unique shapes for their glass. Vases with ruffled edges that look like they came straight out of a flamenco dancer's wardrobe? Check. Covered dishes that resemble miniature space helmets? Absolutely. If your piece boasts an unusual form, that's a good sign. Head to your favorite search engine and image some "Mount Washington Glass" - the visual comparisons can be quite telling.
Reminder: Focus on key sentences in each paragraph.
Bonus Tip: While Mount Washington had their own signature styles, some reproductions mimicked them. Use the shape as a clue, but don't rely on it solely.
Let There Be Light! (But Not Too Much)
Here's where things get a little James Bond-ish. Grab a blacklight, also known as a UV (ultraviolet) light. Shine it on that glass! Many Mount Washington pieces, particularly their famous Burmese glass, contain uranium (yes, you read that right) which makes them glow a startling green under UV light. This isn't a foolproof test, but a positive green glow is a strong indicator of Mount Washington ancestry.
Warning: Don't be alarmed by the uranium. The levels are very low and pose no health risk. Besides, it's kind of cool to own a radioactive vase (in a very responsible way, of course).
It's All in the Details, Baby
Take a close look at the details of your piece. Is the color too uniform? Does the surface feel rough or gritty? Mount Washington pieces were known for their subtle color variations and smooth finishes. Look for imperfections; a little wonky bit of glassblowing here, a stray air bubble there - these can be signs of a piece being lovingly hand-crafted, rather than mass-produced.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
The Verdict is In!
By now, you should have a good sense of whether your piece is a genuine Mount Washington treasure or a charming imposter. Remember, even if it's not the real deal, a beautiful piece of glass is still a beautiful piece of glass!
Here's a handy dandy cheat sheet to remember:
- Look for a paper label (but don't get discouraged if it's missing).
- Consider the shape - is it unique or run-of-the-mill?
- Break out the blacklight and see if it glows green (it might be radioactive-ish, but in a safe way).
- Examine the details - imperfections can be a good thing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for the Discerning Glass Detective:
How to tell if Mount Washington glass is valuable?
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Research, research, research! Look for similar pieces online and see what they've sold for. Consider the rarity, condition, and beauty of your piece.
Tip: Reading with intent makes content stick.
How to date Mount Washington glass?
Unfortunately, Mount Washington rarely dated their pieces. Dating can be tricky and often relies on comparing your piece to documented examples.
How to clean Mount Washington glass?
Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.
QuickTip: Revisit key lines for better recall.
How to care for Mount Washington glass?
Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Wash gently and store carefully.
How to find Mount Washington glass?
Estate sales, antique stores, and even thrift stores can be treasure troves! Keep your eyes peeled and remember the tips above.
With a little knowledge and a dash of detective work, you'll be well on your way to identifying that Mount Washington glass and uncovering its fascinating history. Happy
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