Home >> Collecting >> Antiques

How to Tell If a Vintage Mason Jar Is Authentic

Mason jars, which are also known as Ball jars, have been used for home canning for more than 150 years. Vintage Mason jars are now popular with collectors and in some cases can fetch up to a hundred dollars. When you encounter vintage Mason jars at estate sales, vintage stores and antiques fairs, there are several things you can look for to determine whether the jar you've found is an authentic antique.

Instructions

- 1
  Check the seal and lid. The original Mason jars stayed sealed using suction, which was achieved by rubberizing the center of the cap. Newer jars don't have this type of seal. Make sure none of the metal parts of the jar are shiny, as this is a sign of newer manufacture.
- 2
  Examine the color. Look for aquamarine Mason jars, which are the earliest variety, and get their color from iron imperfections in the glass. Keep an eye out for amethyst-tinted jars as well; when customers demanded clear jars, chemicals were added to the glass that caused the jars to turn a pinkish-purple upon contact with sunlight.
- 3
  Look for bubbles in the glass. These imperfections signify antique manufacturing techniques.
- 4
  Take your jar to an antiques appraiser, who can analyze the jar to determine its authenticity.

Antiques