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How to Determine if Crystal is Real Fostoria

The Fostoria Glass Company operated from 1887 until 1986 and made pressed and etched glassware as well as blown stemware. Fostoria glass was used by U.S. presidents from Eisenhower through Reagan. Some Fostoria pieces continue to be manufactured by the Lancaster Colony Company, which purchased the Fostoria Company in 1983.

Instructions

- 1
  Look for mold lines, which are created when the glass is poured into a mold and then removed after the glassware has been formed. Fostoria glass, particularly the American pattern, will have three mold lines, while Fostoria replicas will not have any mold lines.
- 2
  Feel the glass item. Fostoria used high-quality glass that has a smooth, slippery feel to it. If the glass is cloudy or rough, the piece is probably not authentic Fostoria. Run your finger around the edges as well--this should feel smooth and be free of any snags or rough points.
- 3
  Match the glass to a photograph of Fostoria glassware in a reference book on the subject. If the item you are looking at does not precisely match with the information in the book, the piece is likely a fake.
- 4
  Look at the stem or the bottom of the glassware piece for the Fostoria signature, although many Fostoria pieces were not marked until the 1970s. If the item is not marked, look at images of Fostoria patterns at websites.
- 5
  Take the glass item to antique stores or glassware shows and show the piece to the dealers. Many expert antique dealers will be able to assist you in the identification of authentic Fostoria glassware.

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