Gurley Christmas Tree Candle Value Guide

This vintage Gurley novelty Christmas tree candle is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, produced in Buffalo, New York between 1940 and 1960. Highly collectible for their whimsical paraffin designs, these light orange glittered trees represent the nostalgic holiday decor that defined post-war American mantels.

What affects the value of Gurley Christmas Tree Candle?

• Condition of the wax, specifically looking for the absence of chips, melting, or 'blooming' white residue.
• Presence and integrity of the original paper price tag or manufacturer label on the bottom.
• The preservation of the glitter accents, as these often flake off or thin over decades of storage.
• Rarity of the specific light orange color compared to the more common forest green versions.

How to Identify Gurley Christmas Tree Candle?

• Check the base for the original circular paper label featuring the Gurley Candle Company name and Buffalo, N.Y. address.
• Examine the material for the characteristic dense paraffin wax and the specific light orange hue unique to this production era.
• Look for the distinct application of fine glitter accents on the 'branches' of the tree, which should appear aged rather than modern.
• Verify the wick is unburned, as 'new old stock' examples are the most sought after by holiday enthusiasts.

History of Gurley Christmas Tree Candle

Gurley Novelty Candles were a staple of American holiday decor from the 1930s through the 1970s. Founded by Gurley Candle Company in Buffalo, New York, these candles were known for their whimsical shapes, vibrant colors, and often glittery finishes. They became particularly popular during the mid-20th century, with Christmas-themed designs like trees, Santa Clauses, and snowmen being among their most cherished creations. Many families collected these candles, using them to adorn mantels and holiday tables, making them a nostalgic reminder of Christmases past.