Some Old, Some New Mercury Glass

( New - Ballard Design )

( 1920 Quilted Mercury Glass $1400.00 )

In the late 17th century, the first blown glass orbs coated on the inside with mysterious liquid silver solutions appeared.

Silvered mercury glass describes glass that was blown double-walled, then silvered between the layers with a solution containing silver nitrate in a liquid formula and sealed.
Mercury Glass is distinct among the many types of Art glass.

The mirrored surface and sleek silvery shine, makes it is easy to identify.
Silvered or Mirrored glass has nothing to do with mercury and was never used in the formula that made the mercury glass tableware.

( c. 1880 )

The decorative vases, beakers, goblets and tableware known today as mercury glass were first made around 1840 in the forests of Bohemia, which is now the Czech Republic. At almost the same time it began to appear in the United States & England.

( New Crackle Mercury Glass )

Mercury Glass can be colorful as well, jewel tones to be exact. Many pieces have etching, engraving, and even jewels applied.

( New - Ballard Design )
The differences in decorating techniques will help to establish the country of origin, sometimes the maker clue is found in the seal. If you are collecting, this is important.
The value depends on it’s rarity, type of design and condition. Not unlike any other arena you might collect in.

But the good news is this, if you look, it is there. I think it adds glamour to a table or any surface you place it on. The holidays are a great time to use it.

Just think….You never Polish it. Although my mother would, she would polish my daughter with silver polish if she would stay still long enough.

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Renee Finberg 'TELLS ALL' in her blog of her Adventures in Design