Depression glass is affordable type of glassware that was mass-produced between 1920 and 1950. Despite being relatively common and mass-produced, Depression-era glass is still a desirable collectible today. Manufacturers invented this glass as a direct response to consumer demands. (Homemakers wanted to fill their china cabinets with prestigious-looking glassware without the high costs.)
Companies like Anchor Hocking and Hazel Atlas shifted their focus from high-end glassware to aesthetically pleasing glassware that could be made for less. Nearly twenty companies produced Depression glass and released around 100 signature raised patterns in half a dozen colors. Here’s how to identify some popular Depression glass patterns.
How to Identify Depression Glass
Since depression glass is easy to produce, depression glass is one collectible that is commonly reproduced. The following characteristics can help you identify authentic pieces.
- Companies produced Depression glass quickly and in mass quantities. Many pieces will have small flaws like air bubbles, color variations, and mold errors.
- Depression glass has raised patterns that are applied to the glass. More expensive glassware like Elegant glass has recessed patterns that are etched into the glass.
Common Colors
Common Depression Glass Patterns
Do any of these Depression glass patterns appeal to you? Remember, there are no rules when it comes to collecting glassware. Some people collect one pattern, some people collect one color, and some people collect a single shape (like pitchers).
American Sweetheart
Company: MacBeth Evans Glass Company
Date: 1930 – 1936
Colors: Pink, crystal
Cameo / Ballerina
Company: Anchor Hocking Glass Company
Date: 1930 – 1934
Colors: Green, yellow, pink, and clear
Cherry Blossom
Company: Jeannette Glass Company
Date: 1930 – 1939
Colors: Pink, green, clear, and delphite
Dogwood
Company: Macbeth-Evans Glass Company
Date: 1929 – 1932
Colors: Pink and green
Georgian Lovebirds
Company: Federal Glass Company
Date: 1931 – 1936
Colors: Green, amber, and clear
Mayfair / Open Rose
Company: Anchor Hocking Glass Company
Date: 1931 – 1937
Colors: Pink, blue, yellow, and green
Madrid
Company: Federal Glass Company
Date: 1932 – 1939 (Repro info)
Colors: Amber, pink, blue, and clear
Princess
Company: Anchor Hocking Glass Company
Date: 1931 – 1935
Colors: Pink, green, yellow, light blue
Royal Lace
Company: Hazel Atlas Company
Date: 1934 – 1941
Colors: Cobalt blue, green, pink, crystal
Windsor Diamond
Company: Jeannette Glass Company
Date: 1936 – 1946
Colors: Green, pink, and crystal
