Instructions
Identify the correct color of red. Although different colors of red go into glass vases, it is the deep cranberry or ruby color that is highly sought. Glassware with light red or pink hues are available, but these glasses are usually transparent or translucent. The cranberry or ruby glassware is densely colored and difficult to see through. It is the density or richness of the color that creates the dramatic effect.
Confirm that the glass is created using metal oxides and gold. Metal oxides are melted into the glass to produce a red hue but the addition of gold to the mixture creates the cranberry color. Ask the sales person to provide a list of elements in the glassware.
Identify if the vase has been blown from glass or crystal. The process of blowing glass indicates that each piece is created by an artist. Ask the seller to provide documentation regarding the artist and the location of manufacturing. Sometimes there will be a signature on the bottom of the vase, identifying the artist.