Iittala Glass Value & Price Guide

Iittala glass represents the pinnacle of Finnish design, blending functional modernism with organic forms inspired by the Nordic landscape. Since its inception, the brand has collaborated with legendary designers to create timeless glassware that remains highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

Price Range: $113 - $123 based on recent sales

History of Iittala Glass

Founded in 1881 in the village of Iittala, Finland, the company initially produced traditional apothecary jars and window glass. The brand's identity shifted dramatically in the 1930s and 40s during the rise of Nordic Modernism, led by the groundbreaking work of Aino and Alvar Aalto. Their 'Savoy' vase, introduced in 1936, remains an international icon of organic design. During the mid-century era, designers like Tapio Wirkkala and Kaj Franck further elevated the brand by experimenting with ice-like textures and minimalist geometry, as seen in the Ultima Thule and Teema collections. Today, Iittala continues to bridge the gap between art glass and everyday utility, maintaining its status as a cornerstone of Scandinavian heritage.

Value Factors for Iittala Glass

The typical price range for Iittala Glass is $113 - $123 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Designer Attribution: Pieces designed by 'The Big Three' (Aalto, Wirkkala, and Sarpaneva) typically command the highest market premiums.
• Production Era: Early production runs from the 1950s and 1960s are generally more valuable than contemporary reissues.
• Color Rarity: Specific discontinued glass colors, such as certain shades of red or cobalt, can double or triple the value of standard items like Kivi holders.
• Condition: Because Iittala is often used as daily tableware, finding vintage pieces without 'flea bites,' cloudiness from dishwashers, or scratches is rare and lucrative.

Tips for Buying Iittala Glass

• Check for the presence of the original 'i' red sticker, though its absence doesn't always indicate a fake as many were removed by previous owners.
• Inspect the base for acid-etched signatures, particularly on pieces designed by masters like Alvar Aalto or Tapio Wirkkala.
• Look for production seams; many high-end Iittala pieces are mouth-blown and should show minimal to no mold marks compared to mass-produced lines.
• Verify color consistency, as certain rare hues in the Kivi tealight holder series or Kastehelmi range can significantly impact the item's desirability.

Items in This Collection

• Iittala Kastehelmi Plate
• Iittala Tapio Wirkkala Glasses
• Iittala Mondo Wine Glass
• Iittala Kivi Tealight Holders
• Iittala Flora Bowl
• Iittala Kastehelmi Plates
• Iittala Essence Pitcher
• Iittala Ultima Thule Serving Platter
• Iittala Alvar Aalto Vase
• Iittala Ultima Thule Bowl