Ruby Red Glass Value & Price Guide

Ruby red glass is a prized category of collectible glassware known for its deep, luminous crimson hue achieved through the infusion of gold or copper. Popularized by manufacturers like Fenton and Anchor Hocking, these pieces range from delicate Depression-era plates to mid-century decorative baskets. Collectors value this glass for its ability to add a bold, sophisticated touch of color to any display or table setting.

Price Range: $25 - $40 based on recent sales

History of Ruby Red Glass

The production of ruby red glass dates back centuries, but it saw a massive surge in popularity in the United States during the early to mid-20th century. During the Great Depression, companies like Anchor Hocking mass-produced 'Royal Ruby' glassware, providing affordable yet elegant pieces for households struggling with the economy. This era established ruby red as a staple of American dinnerware, characterized by its rich, consistent coloring. Following the war, companies like Fenton Art Glass elevated the medium by introducing more decorative and hand-crimped designs, such as their iconic ruffled baskets and vases. These mid-century pieces often utilized different chemical formulas to achieve varying shades of red, ranging from bright scarlet to a dark, oxblood tone. Today, these items remain highly collectible as symbols of both industrial ingenuity and artistic flair in American glassmaking history.

Value Factors for Ruby Red Glass

The typical price range for Ruby Red Glass is $25 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of a recognized maker's mark or a signature pattern like Fenton's crest.
• The intensity and uniformity of the red color, with gold-infused 'Gold Ruby' often fetching higher prices.
• The complexity of the form, such as hand-crimped edges, ruffled handles, or intricate molded patterns.
• The overall condition, specifically the absence of 'sick glass' cloudiness or surface scratches from use.

Tips for Buying Ruby Red Glass

• Hold the glass up to a strong light source to check for a true deep red color rather than a flashed-on coating that can peel.
• Look for the presence of a pontil mark on the bottom of hand-blown pieces, which can indicate older or more artisanal craftsmanship.
• Inspect the edges and rims of items like candy dishes and baskets for small flea bites or chips that significantly impact resale value.
• Verify the manufacturer by looking for specific patterns like Fenton's hobnail or Anchor Hocking's Royal Ruby to ensure authenticity.

Items in This Collection

• Ruby Red Glass Candle Holder
• Ruby Red Glass Decanter
• Fenton Ruby Red Basket
• Ruby Red Glass Bowl
• Ruby Red Glass Vase
• Ruby Red Glass Plate
• Ruby Red Depression Glassware
• Ruby Red Glass Dishes
• Fenton Ruby Red Glass Basket
• Ruby Red Glass Tumbler
• Ruby Red Glass Candy Dish