Hobbies And Interests
Depression Glass
Glass referred to specifically as "Depression Glass" was produced between 1929 and 1939 by 19 different glassware companies in over a 100 different patterns. Some more popular patterns actually continued to be produced into the 1950s. The mass production process was crude, and resulted in a number of flaws such as straw marks, mold marks or rough edges and wobbly bases. This glass is differentiated from the other types of this period because the pieces received no finishing work to smooth or polish the flaws.
Elegant Glass
The "Elegant Glass" produced during the early 1900s through the 1950s typically received more hand finishing, making it more expensive than its counterpart, "Depression Glass." Since it was of higher quality, elegant glass was commonly sold by jewelry stores and department stores, offered as an alternative to fine china. Once removed from the mold, the glass was polished to remove mold marks, the base ground if required so that it was not wobbly, and sometimes additional embellishments were etched on the piece. A smaller kiln was sometimes used to give the pieces a high gloss polish.
Carnival Glass
Production of carnival glass began at the turn of the century and continues on a limited basis today, with varying periods of popularity. It became known as "Carnival Glass" because it was given away as prizes at carnivals and fairs during the 1930s after it lost popularity with the buying public. It is recognizable because of the iridescent finish and the efforts made after pressing to polish out the mold seams and in some cases reshape the edges with interesting effects such as ruffles or scallops. The iridescence is applied after removal from the mold, when metallic salts are sprayed on the still hot piece. Most carnival glass did not receive a maker's mark, a couple exceptions are the Northwood and Imperial Glass companies.
Vaseline Glass
Vaseline glass, named for the yellow-green color that made it resemble Vaseline, was produced in the greatest numbers from the mid-1800s through the 1930s, though a few companies continue to produce a limited amount today. Uranium dioxide was commonly used to produce this color, though other elements such as manganese or arsenic were added to produce different effects. It can be identified by using a black light which causes it to fluoresce green in most cases.