Alabaster Stone Fruit Value Guide

Hand-carved in Italy between 1940 and 1960, these alabaster stone fruits are prized for their luminous translucency and remarkable realism. These mid-century decorative pieces were crafted to mimic actual produce, serving as both high-end souvenirs and sophisticated home accents.

What Is Alabaster Stone Fruit Worth?

The typical price range for Alabaster Stone Fruit is $60 - $80 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the polished surface, as chips or deep scratches in the soft stone significantly reduce value.
• The presence of original wooden or wire stems which often go missing over time.
• The realism of the hand-applied coloration and how well the pigment has been preserved.
• Rarity of the specific fruit shape, with lemons and pears typically fetching between $60 and $80.

How to Identify Alabaster Stone Fruit?

• Look for natural variations in color and subtle veining inherent to authentic Italian alabaster.
• Check for a smooth, hand-polished finish that feels cool to the touch compared to plastic or resin imitations.
• Examine the weight; genuine stone fruit will have a significant heft despite its small size.
• Identify hand-carved details such as realistic pits, stems, or textured rinds specific to lemons and pears.

History of Alabaster Stone Fruit

The art of carving decorative items from alabaster dates back to ancient civilizations, prized for its soft, translucent quality that allows for intricate details and a beautiful, luminous appearance. In the mid-20th century, particularly in Italy, the production of carved alabaster fruit became a popular craft, often sold as souvenirs or decorative pieces to adorn homes, mimicking real produce with remarkable realism.