How to Identify an Imperial Glass Pattern
Imperial glass is a form of Carnival glass that was made famous by the Imperial Glass Company of Ohio, which was set up in the early 1900s. Carnival glass requires a great deal more hand-finishing than pressed glass and uses oxidized or metallic finishes to add color to the pieces, says World Collectors Net . Over the years, the Imperial Glass Company became recognized and revered for several trademark practices.
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Focus on the design. The Imperial Glass Company made a name for itself partly due to the geometric patterns it used on its pieces. Until the company came into being, Carnival glass designs usually incorporated patterns inspired by nature, such as leaves and vines. Imperial glass tends to reflect more triangular or diamond-like designs.
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Look at the color. The Imperial Glass Company was renowned for developing unusual colors for its glassware; in particular, clambroth (a pale ginger color), smoke (a light blue-gray), and an unmatched deep purple, says World Collectors Net. During the years of the Great Depression, the company also became known for its pieces in characteristic pink and blue.
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Assess the iridescence. Carnival glass is, by nature, iridescent or metallic-looking. But the Imperial Glass Company took iridescence to new heights. The look is created by adding metallic oxides to the hot glass, and Imperial was considered to obtain particularly brilliant results.
Writer Bio
Jessica began her writing career in 1995 and is Senior Editor at a London communications agency, where she writes and edits corporate publications covering health, I.T., banking and finance. Jessica has also written for consumer magazines including "Cosmopolitan" and travel, home/lifestyle and bridal titles. Jessica holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature and journalism from the University of Queensland.
Photo Credits
- carnival glass image by Jeffrey Sinnock from Fotolia.com
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