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- 13 Tips for Spotting Valuable Glassware at the Thrift Store (financebuzz.com)
For many thrift shoppers looking to earn extra cash, reselling vintage clothing often seems like the go-to option. However, valuable glassware hidden among thrift store shelves can be a surprisingly profitable alternative. While not every piece of glassware is worth much, these 13 tips can help you identify treasures worth snapping up-and avoid the duds.
1. Feel the Weight
Heavier pieces often indicate quality, especially with crystal. A well-made crystal bowl or a set of glasses can fetch $40 or more online, and a vintage crystal champagne flute might sell for nearly $100.
2. Look for Branding
Some glassmakers are more collectible than others. Keep an eye out for marks from renowned early 20th-century companies like the Fenton Art Glass Company, whose vases and bowls sometimes sell for over $100.
3. Check the Glass in the Light
Hold glassware up to the light to spot a rainbow prism-a sign of genuine crystal-and check for cloudiness. Crystal is known for its exceptional clarity.
4. Inspect for Flaws
Oddly enough, tiny bubbles or seams can add value, especially in Depression glass, which was mass-produced during tough economic times. However, these flaws aren’t typical in crystal.
5. Perform a Tap Test
Tap the glass gently with your finger. Crystal produces a clear, ringing sound, while standard glass tends to sound duller.
6. Seek Out Colorful Glassware
In addition to Depression glass, look for colorful vintage pieces like mint-green Jadeite bottles, which often attract collectors.
7. Examine Patterns
Milk glass, usually white and somewhat translucent, can be valuable-especially if it features intricate patterns or is more translucent, hinting at greater age.
8. Search for Numbers
Some older pieces bear numbers or symbols on the bottom that help identify the manufacturer or production date. Research these markings to uncover potential value.
9. Consider Thickness
Crystal is typically thinner than regular glass but remains sturdy due to its lead content. A thin, well-crafted piece could be a valuable find.
10. Go for Larger Items
While sets of vintage wine glasses can be lucrative, larger pieces like serving dishes or big bowls-particularly in milk glass-often command higher prices.
11. Check for Glow-in-the-Dark Properties
Some vintage Jadeite actually glows in the dark, making these pieces highly desirable, though spotting this feature in-store might be tricky without a black light.
12. Look for Pontil Marks
A circular pontil mark on the bottom suggests the piece was hand-blown rather than molded, often indicating greater age and value.
13. Recognize Famous Names
Be on the lookout for recognizable brand names. For example, an antique Coca-Cola bottle could sell for several hundred dollars online.
The Bottom Line
Most thrift store glassware won’t be worth much, but by focusing on sought-after collectible items-such as early 20th-century brands, Depression glass, and handmade pieces-you can turn thrifting into a profitable side hustle.
Money Tips for Everyone
No matter your financial situation, there are always ways to strengthen your finances and build wealth.
- Increase Your Income: Explore side hustles or strategies to keep more of what you earn.
- Grow Your Savings: Harness the power of compound interest and consider working with a financial professional to plan for early retirement.
- Seize Opportunities: Take advantage of discounts, senior benefits, and shop smart-like securing the best car insurance rates-to save money and avoid unnecessary expenses.
With a little knowledge and effort, both your thrifting adventures and your personal finances can thrive.
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- 13 Tips for Spotting Valuable Glassware at the Thrift Store (financebuzz.com)