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How to Collect Glassware

Glassware, in collectors' terms, is generally defined as glass items made from the 1800's through the mid-1900's. There are several different types of glassware, including stemware, milk glass, Depression glass, Carnival glass and Early American Pattern glass. Learning about vintage glassware is an important first step in collecting glassware and there are a variety of ways to collect glassware.

Instructions

- 1
  Learn about the different types of glassware and the manufacturers who made it. For instance, Carnival glass was made during the early- to mid-1900's and commonly has a base color of purple, amber or orange with an iridescent tint. The Fenton Glass Company first produced Carnival glass in 1907 and it was frequently given away as a promotional gift at movies, carnivals and stores. Read reference books for more information about different types of glassware, such as "Florence's Glassware Pattern Identification Guide: Easy Identification for Glassware from 1900 through the 1960s" by Gene Florence and "Collectible Glassware from the 40s, 50s and 60s: An Illustrated Value Guide" by Gene Florence and Cathy Florence.
- 2
  Identify types of glassware that you would like to collect. Learning about, searching for and collecting one or two types, patterns or manufacturers will help develop your collection and will assist you in becoming an expert on your chosen glassware much faster than trying to collect several types of glassware at once.
- 3
  Visit local antique stores and begin to purchase glassware items of interest. Ask the dealer for assistance in identifying items of value and inquire about additional item history and information. Request referrals to other local dealers who sell that particular type of glassware.
- 4
  Search online for antique retail websites that sell the type or brand of glassware that interests you. Visit several websites to get a feel for the types of items available and their current market value. When you find a piece of interest, contact the seller and request several detailed photographs, including up-close photos. Inquire about any chips, scratches or nicks on the item and ask if the seller offers a refund or guarantees satisfaction to protect yourself against receiving damaged items with no recourse.
- 5
  Watch auction-style websites such as eBay.com or Bonanzle.com for glassware pieces of interest. Check "Completed Listings" to see how many previous items have actually sold to get an idea of the current market demand and value. Then check items for sale. When you find a piece of interest, request several photos of the item and inquire about any damage, if that information has not already been presented. Check to make sure the seller has positive reviews from previous buyers and ensure that they have a refund or satisfaction guarantee before buying.
- 6
  Continue buying various pieces of interest until your collection begins to grow. Remember to buy what you love when it comes to collecting glassware, as there are literally hundreds of thousands of glassware items available for purchase. Be discriminating and ask yourself if you will love what you purchased in one week. If the answer is no, keep shopping.

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