Fenton Iridescent Carnival Glass Vase Value Guide

The Fenton Iridescent Carnival Glass Vase is a hallmark of early 20th-century American decorative art, prized for its signature shimmering finish and flared, wavy edges. Produced by the Fenton Glass Company of West Virginia starting in 1905, these pieces transformed affordable glassware into collectible treasures through their distinctive ribbed patterns and metallic luster.

What Is Fenton Iridescent Carnival Glass Vase Worth?

The typical price range for Fenton Iridescent Carnival Glass Vase is $75 - $90 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the iridescent finish, as heavy wear or 'silvering' can significantly reduce the $75-$90 price point.
• The vibrancy and saturation of the colors within the iridescence, with rarer hues commanding higher premiums.
• Structural integrity, specifically checking the delicate wavy edges for flea bites, chips, or hairline cracks.
• The presence of a documented Fenton pattern name which increases desirability among specialized carnival glass collectors.

How to Identify Fenton Iridescent Carnival Glass Vase?

• Look for the characteristic wavy or ruffled edge treatment typical of Fenton's early 20th-century production.
• Examine the exterior for a vertical ribbed pattern that extends toward the flared rim.
• Check for a high-quality iridescent coating that displays a rainbow-like spectrum when held under direct light.
• Verify the base for a polished pontil or specific Fenton mold marks, though many early pieces remain unsigned.

History of Fenton Iridescent Carnival Glass Vase

Carnival glass was popular in the early 20th century, especially during the 1910s-1930s. It was originally made as an affordable decorative glass with a shimmering iridescent effect, often given away at carnivals, hence the name. Fenton Glass Company, founded in 1905 in West Virginia, is one of the most famous makers of carnival glass, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and distinctive patterns.