Antique enthusiasts know that the value of a piece is determined by its rarity, condition, and historical significance. One type of antique that has become increasingly popular in recent years is slag glass. Slag glass has a distinctive look and is highly sought after by collectors. In this article, we will discuss what slag glass is, its history, and how to identify it.
What is Slag Glass?
Slag glass is a type of glass that is made by adding metallic oxides to the glass during the manufacturing process. These oxides cause the glass to have a marbled or swirled appearance. The result is a beautiful, multi-colored glass that is often opaque and resembles marble.
Slag glass was first produced in the late 19th century and was popular through the early 20th century. It was used in a variety of applications, including lampshades, vases, and decorative items.
The History of Slag Glass
Slag glass was first made in England in the 1880s by combining waste materials from iron smelting with glass. The resulting glass had a distinctive, marbled appearance that was highly prized. In the United States, slag glass was first produced by several glass manufacturers, including Fenton, Imperial, and Westmoreland Glass.
During the 1920s and 1930s, slag glass fell out of fashion and was replaced by more modern designs. However, in the 1970s, slag glass experienced a resurgence in popularity, and today it is highly sought after by collectors.
Identifying Slag Glass
Identifying slag glass can be a bit tricky, as there are many different types and colors of slag glass. However, there are a few key characteristics to look for when identifying slag glass:
Marbled Appearance
One of the most distinctive characteristics of slag glass is its marbled appearance. The glass will have swirls or streaks of different colors running throughout it. The colors can range from white to yellow to blue to green, and can be opaque or translucent.
Weight
Slag glass is generally heavier than other types of glass, due to the metallic oxides that are added during the manufacturing process.
Roughness
Slag glass is often rough to the touch, with a slightly bumpy or pebbled texture. This is due to the fact that slag glass was often molded rather than blown, which created a textured surface.
Mold Lines
If you look closely at a piece of slag glass, you may be able to see the lines left by the mold used during manufacturing. These lines can be a clue that the piece is authentic.
Color
Slag glass comes in a variety of colors, but some of the most common colors include white, blue, green, and yellow. The color of the glass can also help you determine the age of the piece. For example, blue slag glass was popular in the 1920s and 1930s, while white slag glass was more popular in the late 1800s.
How to Care for Slag Glass
If you are lucky enough to own a piece of slag glass, it is important to take care of it properly. Here are a few tips for caring for slag glass:
Handle with Care
Slag glass is fragile and can easily break if mishandled. Always handle your slag glass with care, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature.
Clean with Care
To clean your slag glass, use a soft cloth or a feather duster. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing the glass too hard, as this can damage the surface.
Display with Care
When displaying your slag glass, make sure it is in a secure location where