Even glass with class isn’t worth much cash

    It’s hard to understand why we and our ancestors had such an obsession for saving every piece of glass we ever got, and we now collectively have more secondhand glass items in our possession then anyone will ever again want. With such a dramatic imbalance in supply and demand, only the finest examples of glassware stand to be valuable to future generations.
    Mesopotamians were known to be making glass as far back as the second millennium B.C. and glass production has continued in one form or another ever since, though in all likelihood any glass you have was made in the 20th century or later 19th century. The simple fact that it’s so fragile makes the chances that you have anything older quite slim. However, if your ancestors were vigilant caretakers of such things, almost all glassware from the 18th century or earlier has value although certain more common forms such as bottles still may not be worth very much.
    Here are some clues to help you determine if your glassware might be valuable. First look at the bottom. Is there a pontil (belly button)? That tells us it was hand blown. Are the bottom and/or top ground mirror-smooth around the rim or across the entire surface? That indicates higher hand-finished quality. Is the glass colored, stained, cased (multi-layered), fused (several pieces melted together) or otherwise decoratively treated? Those variants are usually worth more than their clear counterparts.
    Now give the piece a “ping” with your fingernail. Does it ring like a bell? That tells you that it’s either flint glass or lead crystal. Both are better than common silica glass. If the glass has cuts or patterns, feel to see if they’re sharp or smooth to the touch. The best glass will be uncomfortable to grab tightly. Signed glass is better than unsigned.
    Once you cull out the jelly jars, mismatched wine glasses and florist vases, have an antique dealer look at the rest. The best examples will always be in demand.

    Scott Davis operates Rhode Island Antiques Mall, 345 Fountain St., Pawtucket. Contact him at (401) 475-3400 or Scott@riantiquesmall.com.