Many people, especially those of an older generation, seem to have endless amounts of glassware hidden in cupboards, cellars, attics, and even sheds. However, whenever somebody comes round to visit, they pull out the same old set of wine glasses or whisky glasses that they always use. Often people think this hording behaviour is a waste of money and space, but opinion may be changing following a few high profile cases of pricey discoveries.

Last year a women in Alabama found some incredibly expensive wine glasses in her basement, and since then there have been hundreds of reported cases of glassware goldmine finds. A relative from overseas had come to visit the women and was helping her clear out her basement when he recognized the glassware brand. They turned out to be very rare vintage Riedel wine glasses, which she sold at auction for ,000. Similar stories have now been popping up all over the place and there are even some businesses now that offer to send round antiques experts to people’s homes to sniff out the expensive pieces.

LSA, a company who make glass vases, have released finding of a study they commissioned which suggested that people in America have an average of $1000 worth of glassware in their homes, and most people think their collections are worthless. To identity expensive items yourself, LSA recommends looking out for key brands such as Reidel, Spiegelau and Cambridge. They state that how much an item is worth often comes down to the clarity of the glass, the detailing on it, and how good the finishing is. Lastly, expensive crystal glass will have a hallmark and often a date on the base. LSA advised that if you are still unsure about the worth of your glassware you should take it along to an antiques dealer who usually give accurate valuations. It is worth being a little cautious of their valuation however as they may be interested in the piece themselves and want to pay below value for it.

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Filed under: Antiques and Collectibles

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