Cranberry Glass Display Brightens Grist Mill In January
While the birth date of cranberry glass is in dispute, and everyone from Italians to Germans to Bohemians lay claim to its creation - some experts say the Romans found a way to add a pale pink blush to their glassware by putting a copper oxide in the molten glass. Still many others insist that true cranberry glass was developed when British glassmakers in the mid-eighteenth century discovered that adding gold chloride to their mix would turn the glass the beautiful shade of deep pink. But whoever first created it, no one can argue that cranberry glass embodies both mystery and sophistication. It became wildly popular during the Victorian era, when everything from beakers and wine glasses to cruets and candlesticks graced the tables of gentry throughout the world. So popular was this desirable shade of glass that even novelties such as bells, shoes, and rolling pins were made of it! In the 1940s and 1950s, both Fenton and Pilgrim glass factories recreated cranberry glass, not as reproductions, but as a revival of the collectibles from a bygone era. Though the pieces were new, that didnt mean the same care and craftsmanship wasnt put into their production. In fact, Fentons manufacturing process required no less than 26 artisans to create a single piece!
Today cranberry glass is a rare and valuable treasure and can be found in many patterns: hobnail, coin dot, daisy, diamond, and ruffled are some of the most popular. Adding opalescence and hand-painted flourishes attracts even more admirers. Even those who aren't collectors love having pieces of this beautiful art adding warmth and elegance to their décor.
Our multi-dealer shop is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with extended hours until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and our friendly dealers will be happy to assist you in finding whatever special treasure youre searching for. Dont forget that we offer a 20 percent discount on all items $6 and over, with 25 percent off something different each week! For more information, and to find out about all the great events we have each month, check out our website at www.gristmillantiques.com, or give us a call at (609) 726-1588.