Jeannette Iris and Herringbone Pitcher Value Guide

The Jeannette Iris and Herringbone Pitcher is a quintessential example of Depression-era elegance, produced by the Jeannette Glass Company between 1928 and 1932. Its distinctive combination of delicate floral motifs and structured geometric lines made it a beloved centerpiece in American homes during the Great Depression.

What affects the value of Jeannette Iris and Herringbone Pitcher?

• Condition is paramount, as chips or 'flea bites' on the raised iris petals or the footed base significantly decrease market value.
• Glass clarity affects pricing, with 'sick' or cloudy glass caused by dishwasher etching being less desirable than brilliant crystal.
• Production era matters, as original 1928-1932 clear versions hold a different collector niche compared to later iridescent carnival glass reissues.
• The presence of original manufacturing marks or mold lines can help verify the piece's authenticity and age for serious collectors.

How to Identify Jeannette Iris and Herringbone Pitcher?

• Look for the specific embossed iris floral pattern layered directly over a vertical ribbed herringbone background.
• Verify the footed base, which is a standard structural feature for the authentic 1920s-1930s pitcher design.
• Check the glass clarity; while later 1950s and 1970s reissues featured iridescent or colored finishes, the original era focused on clear crystal.
• Examine the handle attachment points for the seamless integration characteristic of Jeannette Glass Company manufacturing.

History of Jeannette Iris and Herringbone Pitcher

The Iris and Herringbone pattern was produced by the Jeannette Glass Company of Pennsylvania between 1928 and 1932. It remains one of the most iconic designs of the Depression era, specifically created to bring a touch of elegance to American households during a time of economic hardship. While the clear crystal version was the most common, the company later re-released the pattern in various colors and iridescent finishes in the 1950s and 1970s.