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How to Identify Pink Depression Glass

Pink Depression glass is one of the most collectible shades of Depression glass. Varying hues from faint blush to vibrant pink, collectors love the play of design and color when the light hits this beautiful early 20th century glassware. Since this particular shade is so popular, modern pink glassware has also hit the market, so distinguishing your antiques from the fakes is important.

Things You'll Need

Collector books

Instructions

- 1
  
  Know the patterns and makers. Some pink Depression glass was made by the Hocking Glass Company between 1936 and 1938 in what is called the Old Cafe or Princess style. The Indiana Glass Company made earlier pink pieces that also qualify as "Depression glass."
- 2
  
  Check out eBay. Ebay is an online auction and sales site that not only sells antiques but can help you learn about them as well. A search for "pink Depression glass" can yield more than 2,000 entries, and allows you to visually identify common patterns and shapes. Although you can't be sure all entries are really Depression era glass, you can get a good look at the diverse patterns and hues that fit into the pink Depression glass era.
- 3
  
  Get a book. There are a number of books on collecting Depression glass, and most books cover all the different desirable colors, including the pink glassware. Getting a book means having a reference you can use when you shop at yard sales and antique malls. A good Depression glass book will also explain the different patterns to look for and give you an idea of value.
- 4
  
  Look through antique stores. Browsing antique stores allows you to see a wide variety of pink Depression glass, including the many hues and patterns. You can also get an idea of what the value of your pieces may be and be able to complete a set of dishes you are collecting as well.
- 5
  Get an appraisal. If you have a particularly rare piece of pink glass that you haven't been able to find pictures of online or at local shops, bring your piece into an antique dealer for an appraisal. He or she may be able to simply look at your piece to help you identify it as pink Depression glass or may need to research your piece a bit more, which may cost you a nominal fee. Most appraisers can easily identify a fake and may not have to charge you for that knowledge.
- 6
  Join a forum. There are a lot of Depression glass collector website and blogs that can help you connect with other pink Depression glass collectors. Registration is free and allows you to ask questions---and answer them---on the forum. Post a photo of a piece you are having trouble identifying and your new friends will try to help you out.

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