Moonstone by Anchor Hocking
Unique insights about a war-era glass production off the Anchor Hocking manufacturing lines when women were America’s primary workforce.
Anchor Hocking is one of America’s oldest glass producers, and we are delighted to receive an expansive set of mint-condition artifacts in our available collection. When discovering more about the history and creation of this set, we reached back decades farther into history than usual and found some surprises along the way.
Anchor Hocking, the glassware manufacturer we know today, has a long history. It first came into existence in 1905 when Isaac J. Collins and six friends raised $8,000 to buy the Lancaster Carbon Company in Lancaster, Ohio.
We know that Anchor Hocking did not invent Hobnail glass. We have found that the hobnail style of glass manufacture was originally produced and popularized in the Victorian Era (the Downton Abbey 1830s to about 1900). Most agree that it was developed by an artist at Hobbs Brockunier and Co. in West Virginia in 1886 by first pressing glass into a mold with hobnails all over it and then hand-blowing and shaping the piece. This early form of hobnail glassware was known as Dew Drop Glass. Sometimes the tops of the "dew drops" were made opalescent by reheating the surface of heat-sensitive glass near the furnace, aka "glory hole." It was commonly made into pitchers with matching drinking glasses for elegant ladies' luncheons and picnics.
Anchor Hocking moonstone original sticker circa 1942-1946
Nearly 100 years later, during the great depression, Hocking set out to democratize the dew drop glass style and introduce hobnail to Americans outside of high society. Bright colors like pink, clear with red trim, and some pieces in ruby were providing a sense of luxury and cheer in hard economic times. It was nearly 10 years after they began producing hobnail glass that they began manufacturing their own Moonstone opalescent hobnail glass. This decade was needed for Anchor Hocking to develop a way to mass manufacture that elusive opalescent tipped look. A triumph in American manufacturing, the first pieces of Moonstone arrived in 1942, just after we marked the end of the Depression and the beginning of WW2.
With the war on an upswing, a large majority of American men were drafted to serve, and the remaining workforce was primarily comprised of women. It is not a far stretch to imagine that the hands that worked the glass pressing machines would have been women, quite a different scenario to the pink pieces manufactured just a decade earlier. These pieces are from an era prior to the significant post-war economic and style shift.
Anchor Hocking ruffled edge Moonstone Bowl and Dinner Plate circa 1940s
The Moonstone pattern, made from hobnail molds, features primarily transparent glass bodies with white opalescent glass highlights on the tips of the hobs and edges of each piece, sometimes reflecting shades of blue or amethyst. It took many forms, from traditional dinnerware pieces like plates and cups to impressive serveware, accessories, and table decor. Several of these pearlescent pieces, especially the tableware, host hyperfeminine ruffled edges, making for a striking display when a place setting is stacked. As was popular in the era, several serving pieces were divided to carry several small treats, and it was common for use with sweet and savory offerings. Large punch bowls were made for social gatherings, and though it was a century after the first hobnails came to be, elegant ladies still used matching pitchers and drinking glasses for luncheons and picnics. This time, though, they were catching daylight on their tables in the twinking opalescent glow of Moonstone.
Hocking continued production through 1946. A short run, making these particular pieces rare and collectible.
Opalescent hue shows and glows with different angles and light.
Why Vintage Glassware is Bursting with Vibrant Colors
In the past, glassmakers utilized various techniques to infuse colors into their creations.
Have you ever wondered why vintage glassware is bursting with vibrant colors while modern-day glassware tends to be mostly clear? 🤔 Let's explore the fascinating reasons behind this shift.
In the past, glassmakers utilized various techniques to infuse colors into their creations. They incorporated vibrant pigments like manganese, cobalt, uranium, and even gold during the glassblowing process. These elements created stunning hues, ranging from rich blues and greens to radiant reds and yellows. Vintage glassware truly reflected the creativity and craftsmanship of the artisans behind them.
However, as time went on, the demand for clear glassware increased.
Clear glassware gained popularity due to its versatility. It allowed the colors of the fine wines to take center stage and became preferred for formal occasions and fine dining.
Technological advancements played the most significant role. Developing more transparent glass formulas and refining production techniques made it easier to mass-produce clear glassware. This resulted in cost-effective (cheap!) manufacturing processes and broader availability for consumers.
Still, the allure of mouth-blown vintage glassware remains unparalleled. Especially if you already know the color of your favorite chard pretty damn well. The vivid colors found in vintage pieces add a touch of nostalgia and personality to any table setting. They evoke a sense of history and are cherished as collectibles, reminding us of the unique craftsmanship and design aesthetics of bygone eras and artists.
Raise a toast to the colorful past and the clear future of glassware! 🥂✨
How to Style Vintage Glassware in a Modern Home: Tips and Ideas
Are you a fan of vintage glassware but unsure how to incorporate it into your modern home decor? Look no further! With a few simple tips and ideas, you can showcase your vintage glassware collection in a stylish and modern way.
Mix and Match: Don't be afraid to mix and match vintage glassware pieces with modern ones. Use vintage glasses with modern plates or a vintage pitcher with a sleek tray. Mixing and matching will create a unique and eclectic look that is sure to impress.
Color Coordination: Coordinate your vintage glassware collection by color to create a cohesive look. For example, display all your green vintage glasses together on a bar cart or mix and match different shades of blue in a tablescape.
Display: Display your vintage glassware collection on open shelves, bar carts, or in glass cabinets. This will allow your collection to be both functional and decorative.
Use Them: Don't let your vintage glassware collection collect dust in a cabinet. Use them for your next dinner party or cocktail hour to impress your guests with their unique charm and character.
Pair Them with Plants: Vintage glassware can make excellent planters. Add some greenery to your vintage glassware collection for a pop of color and life in your home.
By following these simple tips and ideas, you can create beautiful and modern home decor using vintage glassware. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your vintage glassware collection.
Vintage Glassware for a Sustainable and Stylish Home
Anchor Hocking Lido glassware from the 1971 Anchor Hocking catalog.
Elevate your home with eco-friendly and chic vintage glassware
Vintage glassware is the perfect choice for anyone looking to add a touch of sophistication and style to their home while also being environmentally conscious. Not only are vintage pieces one-of-a-kind and often handcrafted, but they also reduce the demand for new glassware, which requires energy and resources to produce.
When shopping for vintage glassware, there are many options to choose from, including wine glasses, tumblers, goblets, and more. Each piece has its own unique character, adding a personal touch to your home.
In addition to the environmental benefits, vintage glassware is also often made with higher quality materials and craftsmanship. These pieces were made to last and can withstand everyday use, making them a practical choice as well as a stylish one.
So why not add some vintage glassware to your collection? Not only will it add character and style to your home, but it will also be a sustainable and responsible choice.
The Science Behind the Blue Tint in Glass
Uncovering the chemistry behind the stunning shades of blue in vintage glassware.
Blue glass has a distinct and captivating appearance that is often prized by collectors and enthusiasts of vintage glassware. But how does this beautiful hue come to be?
There are a few different ways that blue glass is made, and the method used can have an impact on the intensity and depth of the color.
One way that blue glass is made is by adding metal oxide compounds to the melting glass mixture. Cobalt oxide is a common choice, as it produces a deep, rich blue color. Copper oxide can also be used, although it tends to produce a greenish-blue hue.
Another way to achieve a blue color in glass is by using a special type of glass known as "cased glass." In this process, a layer of clear or colorless glass is "cased" or encased in a layer of colored glass. This can create a range of shades, including shades of blue.
The color of blue glass can also be influenced by the type of flame used during the melting process. Different types of flames, such as oxygen-enriched or reducing flames, can produce different colors and shades in the final product.
So, as you can see, there are several factors that contribute to the beautiful blue color of vintage glassware. Whether it's due to the addition of metal oxide compounds, the use of cased glass, or the type of flame used in the melting process, blue glass is a beautiful and intricate product that is the result of centuries of craftsmanship and tradition.
Sustainable Style: The Environmental Benefits of Choosing Vintage Glassware
Reduce your carbon footprint and add unique character to your home with vintage glassware.
When it comes to shopping for home decor, it's important to consider not only the aesthetic appeal of a piece, but also its environmental impact. While buying new glassware may seem like the more convenient option, choosing vintage glassware has a number of sustainability benefits that are worth considering.
First and foremost, buying vintage reduces the demand for new products to be made, which in turn reduces the energy and resources needed for production. Glassware production can be energy-intensive, as it requires melting raw materials at high temperatures and shaping the glass through various processes. By choosing vintage, you're helping to offset the environmental impact of these processes and supporting a more sustainable production cycle.
Additionally, vintage glassware often has a longer lifespan than its newer counterparts, as it was typically made with higher quality materials and craftsmanship. This means that you'll be able to enjoy your vintage glassware for longer, reducing the need to constantly buy new items and further contributing to a more sustainable home.
But sustainability isn't the only benefit of vintage glassware. These unique pieces also add character and history to your home, making them a great conversation starter and a way to add a personal touch to your decor. Plus, with so many different styles and patterns to choose from, you're sure to find a vintage glassware set that fits your personal style.
So next time you're in the market for new glassware, consider choosing vintage. Not only will you be supporting a more sustainable production cycle, but you'll also be adding character and uniqueness to your home.
Unique Vintage Glassware at Roth Modern: Adding Character and History to Your Collection
Stand out with rare and beautiful vintage glassware from Roth Modern.
Are you tired of the same old mass-produced home decor and serving ware? Want to add some character and history to your collection? Look no further than vintage glassware from Roth Modern.
At Roth Modern, we specialize in sourcing unique and high-quality vintage glass pieces from around the world. From hand-blown champagne coupes to mid-century modern tumblers, our selection offers something for every taste and style.
But vintage glassware is about more than just aesthetics. When you purchase a vintage piece, you're not only getting a beautiful and one-of-a-kind item, you're also supporting sustainability. Vintage glassware has already been produced, meaning you're not contributing to the environmental impact of creating new products. Plus, many vintage pieces are made with higher quality materials and craftsmanship, meaning they'll last longer and have less of a need to be replaced.
So why not add some character and history to your collection while also supporting sustainability? Browse our selection of unique vintage glassware at Roth Modern today.
Start your vintage glassware collection now at Roth Modern.
Vintage Glassware: A Smart Investment for Collectors
Invest in the beauty and craftsmanship of handblown glassware
Are you a collector looking to add some unique and beautiful pieces to your collection? Consider vintage glassware. Not only does it bring a touch of history and character to your home, but it can also be a smart financial investment.
Vintage glassware, particularly handblown pieces, can often hold their value or even increase in value over time. This is due to the rarity and craftsmanship of these pieces. Handblown glass requires a high level of skill and attention to detail, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. These qualities make vintage glassware highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
In addition to potentially increasing in value, vintage glassware can also be a more sustainable choice. Instead of purchasing new, mass-produced pieces, you can opt for vintage glassware that has already had a long life and can continue to be used and enjoyed.
So if you're looking to add some unique and valuable pieces to your collection, consider vintage glassware. Not only will you be investing in the beauty and craftsmanship of these pieces, but you'll also be making a sustainable choice for your home.
Explore our selection of handblown vintage glassware and add some history and value to your collection today!
Explore the Timeless Artistry of Vintage Glassware
Delve into the rich history and craftsmanship of antique glassware
If you're a fan of vintage home decor, chances are you've come across some stunning glassware pieces in your search. From elegant wine glasses to intricate vases, antique glassware has a timeless charm and craftsmanship that can't be found in modern pieces. But have you ever stopped to wonder about the history and artistry behind these beautiful objects?
In this blog post, we'll take a deeper look at the world of vintage glassware, exploring the history, techniques, and craftsmanship that goes into these timeless pieces.
The history of antique glassware dates back centuries, with some of the earliest known examples dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome. Glassblowing, the process of creating glass objects by blowing air into a gather of molten glass, has been around since the 1st century BC and has evolved significantly over the years.
During the Middle Ages, glassmaking became an important trade in Europe, with many skilled craftsmen creating beautiful works of art using glassblowing techniques. However, it wasn't until the 18th century that glassmaking truly flourished, with the development of the crown glass method. This allowed for the creation of large, clear sheets of glass, leading to the mass production of windowpanes and other glass products.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and we see the rise of handblown glass as a popular art form. From the Art Deco movement to Mid-Century Modern design, handblown glass played a prominent role in the world of home decor. Skilled craftsmen used a variety of techniques, such as lampworking and etching, to create unique and intricate glassware pieces.
Today, vintage glassware is highly sought after by collectors and decor enthusiasts alike. From classic crystal stemware to colorful handblown vases, these pieces offer a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and style. Plus, by choosing vintage glassware, you're supporting sustainability and helping to reduce the environmental impact of mass production.
So next time you're on the hunt for the perfect glassware piece, consider going vintage. You'll not only add some timeless charm to your home, but you'll also be supporting the artistry and craftsmanship of skilled glassmakers from the past.
Ready to add some vintage glassware to your collection? Check out Roth Modern's selection of antique glassware and discover the timeless beauty of handcrafted pieces.
The Artisanal Appeal of Handblown Glass
Add unique, sustainable style to your home with vintage handblown glassware
When it comes to adding character to your home, few things can beat the timeless appeal of vintage glassware. Handblown glass, in particular, offers a level of craftsmanship and uniqueness that can't be found in mass-produced pieces. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, there are several compelling reasons to consider adding handblown glass to your collection.
For starters, handblown glass is inherently more sustainable than its mass-produced counterparts. It's made in small batches by skilled artisans, rather than being churned out by machine in large quantities. This means less energy is used in the production process, and there's less waste generated as a result.
Handblown glass is also often made from higher quality materials, which means it's more durable and less likely to break or chip. This makes it a smart choice for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint by buying fewer replacements over time.
But perhaps the biggest draw of handblown glass is its one-of-a-kind nature. No two pieces are exactly the same, making it a truly special addition to any home. Whether you're looking for elegant stemware, unique vases, or colorful decorative pieces, you're sure to find something that speaks to you in the world of handblown glass.
So why not add a little artisanal charm to your home? Check out Roth Modern's selection of handblown glassware and find the perfect piece to add a touch of sustainable style to your collection.
Why vintage glassware is the sustainable choice for your home
As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products grows, more and more people are turning to vintage and secondhand items as a way to reduce their environmental impact. Vintage glassware, in particular, is a great option for those looking to add a touch of style and sustainability to their home.
One of the main benefits of vintage glassware is its durability. Many vintage pieces were made with high-quality materials and techniques, meaning they are able to withstand wear and tear much better than their modern counterparts. This means that vintage glassware can be used and enjoyed for many years, reducing the need for constantly purchasing new items.
In addition to its durability, vintage glassware also has a lower environmental impact than new glassware. The production of new glassware requires a significant amount of energy and resources, including sand, soda ash, and limestone. The production process also releases carbon emissions into the atmosphere. By choosing vintage glassware, you are reducing the demand for new glassware and the resources required for its production.
Vintage glassware also has a unique style and character that can add a touch of charm and personality to your home. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of crystal or the retro vibe of mid-century modern glassware, there is a vintage glassware option to suit every style.
When shopping for vintage glassware, it's important to keep in mind that not all vintage pieces are created equal. Look for pieces that are in good condition and have been well cared for. You can also consider purchasing from reputable dealers or sellers who can provide information on the history and provenance of the pieces.
In conclusion, vintage glassware is a sustainable and stylish choice for your home. Its durability, lower environmental impact, and unique character make it a great option for those looking to reduce their consumption and add some charm to their space.
The Art of Handblown Glass: A Look at the Techniques of the 1960s
In the 1960s, handblown glass was a popular medium for creating unique and intricate pieces of art. The process of handblown glass involves the use of a furnace, a blowpipe, and a variety of tools to shape and form the glass. It is a skilled craft that requires a high level of precision and expertise.
To start the process, the glassblower would gather a small amount of molten glass on the end of the blowpipe. Using various tools, they would shape the glass into the desired form. The glass would then be placed in a mold to give it its final shape.
One of the most challenging aspects of handblown glass is the delicate balance between heat and timing. If the glass is too hot, it will be too soft to work with, but if it is too cool, it will be too hard to shape. The glassblower must constantly monitor the temperature of the glass and work quickly to shape it before it hardens.
In the 1960s, handblown glass was used to create a wide variety of objects, including vases, bowls, and figurines. It was also used to create intricate and ornate pieces of jewelry. The popularity of handblown glass in the 1960s was due in part to the fact that it was seen as a high-quality, handmade alternative to mass-produced items.
Today, handblown glass is still a popular medium for creating unique and beautiful pieces of art. It is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the glassblowers who continue to create works of art using this timeless technique.
How to Create a Mixed and Matched Vintage Stemware Collection
Add some character and charm to your table with a curated vintage stemware collection
Vintage stemware can add character and charm to your table, and creating a mixed and matched collection is a great way to add some personality to your home. But where do you start? Here are some tips for creating a mixed and matched vintage stemware collection:
Choose a theme: A theme can help you focus your collection and give it cohesiveness. Some themes to consider might be a specific color, a type of glass (e.g., cut glass, etched glass, etc.), a particular era, or a designer.
Look for variety: While a theme can help you focus your collection, it's also important to look for variety within that theme. This can add interest and depth to your collection. For example, if your theme is cut glass, look for different patterns, shapes, and sizes of cut glass stemware.
Mix and match: The beauty of a mixed and matched collection is that you don't have to match everything perfectly. In fact, the mismatched look is part of the charm. So don't be afraid to mix and match different stemware within your theme. Just be sure to balance the overall look by considering the shape, size, and color of the stemware.
Shop smart: To build your collection, you can shop at estate sales, thrift stores, antique stores, and online marketplaces. Just be sure to check the condition of the stemware before you buy, as vintage stemware can sometimes have chips, cracks, or other imperfections.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and unique vintage stemware collection that adds character and charm to your table. So start shopping and mix and match your way to a one-of-a-kind collection.
Shop our collection of vintage stemware now and start building your mixed and matched collection today.