What’s It Worth: Milk Glass

Milk glass is a type of opaque or translucent glassware that was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United States and Europe. The term “milk glass” originated from its milky appearance, which is achieved by adding opacifiers such as bone ash or tin oxide to the glass during production. This gives the glass its characteristic white or off-white color and opaque quality.

While milk glass was originally produced primarily in white, it can also be found in various colors such as blue, pink, and green, although white remains the most common. Milk glass was used for a variety of items including dinnerware, vases, lampshades, and decorative objects, and was a staple in many homes as a symbol of refinement and taste.

Collectability
The popularity of milk glass gradually waned as new materials and design trends emerged later in the 20th century, leading to a decline in production and consumption of milk glass. While milk glass may not be as prevalent in modern households as it once was, it remains a beloved collectible and decorative item cherished by enthusiasts for its vintage charm, timeless appeal and sense of nostalgia.

Milk glass is a favorite for collectors and decorators because the huge variety of shapes, sizes and designs can be displayed together and still look like a unified collection. Vintage milk glass will appear to be bright white and opaque, yet glossy, with a subtle effect of iridescence when you hold it to the light. It is often used as a decorative accent in interior design, as well as for special occasions such as weddings and parties.

Popular Designs
While it’s challenging to pinpoint the absolute “most popular” designs of milk glass, several motifs and patterns have gained widespread recognition and admiration among enthusiasts. Here are some of the most iconic milk glass designs and patterns that are still actively collected today:

• Hobnail: Arguably the most iconic milk glass pattern, hobnail features raised, rounded bumps resembling hobnails or studs. This design was popularized by the Fenton Art Glass Company and became synonymous with milk glass during the mid-20th century.
• Grape and Cable: Characterized by a motif of grape clusters and vines intertwined with twisted cables, this design was commonly used by various manufacturers, including Westmoreland Glass Company.
• Paneled Grape: Another popular grape-themed pattern, paneled grape features grape clusters and leaves arranged in panels around the surface of the glassware. This design was produced by various manufacturers and remains a favorite among collectors of milk glass tableware.
• Lace Edge: Also known as “Spanish Lace” or “Silver Crest,” this design features a delicate lace-like pattern around the edges of the glassware. It adds a touch of sophistication and intricacy to milk glass items, such as plates, bowls, and vases.
• Diamond Point: Characterized by diamond-shaped panels or facets, diamond point is a classic milk glass pattern that adds texture and visual interest to glassware.
• English Hobnail: Similar to the hobnail pattern but with smaller, more densely packed bumps, English hobnail exudes a refined elegance. This design was popularized by manufacturers such as Westmoreland Glass Company and is often found on items like vases, compotes, and candleholders.
• Button and Daisy: Featuring a motif of button-like shapes surrounded by daisy flowers, this charming design adds a whimsical touch to milk glass items.

What’s It Worth in 2024?
Like many housewares that were produced on a wide scale, the value of common pieces has declined in recent years, with an average auction price in the $10 to $30 range for most pieces, and the huge variety of shapes and styles makes them fun to collect. There are some reliably sought-after pieces, however. Here are some of the best-selling styles purchased by collectors in 2024:

Fenton Hobnail Milk Glass Melon Lamp ($300)

Fenton Turquoise Milk Glass Daisy And Buttons Large Fan Vase ($265)

Westmoreland Glass Panel Harvest Grape Punch Bowl and 14 Cups ($200)

Fenton Milk Glass Epergne Diamond Lace Pattern ($70)

Westmoreland Glass Doric Lace Edge Milk Glass Cake Stand ($50)