Steuben Glass Value & Price Guide

Steuben Glass represents the pinnacle of American luxury crystal, renowned for its exceptional clarity and artistic brilliance. Founded in Corning, New York, the company became world-famous for its high-lead content glass and iconic designs that range from iridescent Art Nouveau pieces to sleek, mid-century modern sculptures.

Price Range: $200 - $223 based on recent sales

History of Steuben Glass

Steuben Glass Works was founded in 1903 by Frederick Carder and Thomas G. Hawkes. During the early 'Carder Era,' the company was celebrated for its vibrant, iridescent glass styles like Gold and Blue Aurene. However, the brand underwent a massive transformation in 1933 under Arthur A. Houghton Jr., who introduced a new glass formula with a high refractive index that allowed for unprecedented light dispersion. This shift led to the creation of the clear, heavy crystal that defined the brand's prestige for the rest of the 20th century. Steuben pieces became the standard for American diplomatic gifts, often presented by U.S. Presidents to foreign heads of state. Despite closing its main factory in 2011, the brand's legacy continues through the Corning Museum of Glass, maintaining its status as a premier name in decorative arts.

Value Factors for Steuben Glass

The typical price range for Steuben Glass is $200 - $223 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Rarity of the design, specifically limited edition 'Major Works' or pieces featuring intricate engravings by famous artists.
• The era of production, with early 20th-century Aurene glass and mid-century 'Excalibur' series commanding premium prices.
• Physical condition, where even minor flea bites, scratches on the base, or internal fractures can drastically reduce the market value.
• The complexity of the form, such as the inclusion of controlled bubbles, 'teardrop' stems, or elaborate hand-formed sculptural elements.

Tips for Buying Steuben Glass

• Examine the base for the 'Steuben' signature, which was typically diamond-point etched by hand rather than acid-etched or molded.
• Check for the presence of the original red leather presentation box and flannel bags, as these significantly enhance the collectibility and resale value.
• Inspect the glass under a strong light for 'sickness' or cloudiness, as Steuben's value relies heavily on its signature optical clarity.
• Distinguish between the early colorful Aurene glass designed by Frederick Carder and the later clear crystal designs introduced after 1933.

Items in This Collection

• Steuben Glass Bowl
• Steuben Glass Apple
• Steuben Glass Eagle
• Steuben Blue Aurene Vase
• Steuben Glass Apple Paperweight
• Steuben Excalibur Letter Opener
• Steuben Lyre Vase
• Steuben Glass Cat
• Steuben Perfume Bottle
• Steuben Spiral Bowl
• Steuben Teardrop Glass
• Steuben Crystal Bowl
• Steuben Olive Dish
• Steuben Glass Compote
• Steuben Teardrop Bud Vase
• Steuben Teardrop Decanter
• Steuben Glass Footed Bowl
• Steuben Grotesque Bowl