Depression Glass: Tips for Newbie Collectors

For the newbie collector, the huge variety of colors and patterns of depression glass may be a bit overwhelming! Time and experience, and a good depression glass encyclopedia, will help the novice learn how to choose pieces for their collection, and how to tell an authentic piece of depression glass from a reproduction. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you get started on the right path!

Many collectors have the goal of collecting a particular pattern or color, although some just enjoy the variety and will pick up whatever they find attractive and within their budget. A full setting of a single color and pattern can be striking, but a mixture of patterns and colors has its own esthetic beauty. The choice is really up to the collector.

You may have decided to fill out the set of depression glass that Grandma left you, or set your sights on a particular style. The first thing you need to be aware of is that certain patterns and colors of depression glass were made in limited amounts and you may not be able to find enough pieces to create a place setting, let alone enough to set the table with. Before you start investing good money in a lost cause, do some research. There are many excellent collectors' web sites and reference books that can give you information on the availability of the pattern or color you are searching for.

Know the value of the pieces that you are seeking. As with all collectibles, some pieces may be rather pricey, while some may be picked up for a song. It can be frustrating to find out that you simply can't afford to finish a collection you have started.