A Rosy Past for Cranberry Glass

What is it?

A 5-inch-high enameled cranberry glass scent bottle, probably made in the late 19th century.

What’s its history?

Cranberry glass first appeared in 1612 when famous glassmaker Antonio Neri of Florence, Italy, added a pinch of gold to bubbling molten glass. That gold produced a red glass that shimmered with jewel-like intensity.

Before that time, no glass had the same depth and resonance of color. Cranberry glass, or “gold ruby,” as it is called in Europe, remains one of the most difficult colors to create in glassmaking because a slight mistake can result in a muddy color.

Interest in cranberry glass peaked during the Victorian Age because the glass went well with the then-fashionable heavy upholstery and dark woods.

What’s the legend?

This particular bottle was bought at an antique store in Temecula by Laguna Beach resident Glenda Trimble. “I am an avid cranberry glass collector,” Trimble said. “I’m always looking for new pieces. One of my prizes is a smashing cranberry glass car vase from the 1920s that’s 16 inches in length. Expensive cars in those days had vases for flowers.”

Why is it popular today?

Collectors still prize the rich colors of the glass. Less expensive pieces have been made by substituting copper for gold, but this leaves a bluish purple tint.

Be aware that reproductions abound that are heavier and lack the same quality. Contemporary cranberry glass pieces are also made.

What’s it worth today?

Al Farah, owner of Rothdale’s Antiques, Fine Furnishings and Collectibles in Orange, said this piece is worth around $150.

“The most valuable cranberry glass pieces are from famous makers, like Mount Washington and Stevens and Williams,” he said. Some vases from these companies have sold for more than $4,000.

Where can I find it?

Fine antique stores, such as Rothdale’s Antiques and several Internet Web sites.

To have an item considered for this column, send information and a photograph of it to: What’s It Worth?, Home Design, The Times Orange County, 1375 Sunflower Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92626.

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