The Breathtaking Vintage Glass Decor You Shouldn't Pass Over At Thrift Stores

There's something about vintage decor that's appealing. Maybe the nostalgia connects you to a piece with rich history or transports you to an era of revolutionary interior design. Or, maybe you appreciate the way unique pieces can help you express yourself and add more character and personality to your home. Either way, it's easy to see why, when you're holding a valuable piece of vintage decor, that it's truly something special. And if you're the type of thrifter who gets a thrill from finding charming antique housewares for a bargain, then you won't want to pass up on vintage Viking Glass home decor.

Known for its colorful hues and unique silhouettes, Viking Glass was crafted using hand-blowing techniques. Vases, candle holders, and novelty items colored with rich cobalt blues, dainty yellows, and stunning ruby reds, the vintage glass company quickly became America's premier glass company. Aesthetically, the glass designs and shape catered to the mid-century trend of the time, which makes it a gorgeous addition to mid-century modern or the contemporary simplicity of Scandinavian decor to add texture and an elegant touch to a space. You won't find new Viking Glass today, which is part of what makes the vintage glass decor so valuable.

The Viking Glass company was established in the 1900s, after merging with New Martinsville Glass Company. It wasn't long until the company became known as an American manufacturer of decorative glass, later expanding its inventory to feature vanities, lamps, and figurines. Their unique pieces are well-known and sought after for their colorful decorative glasses, including centerpieces, candle holders, and their popular swung vases.

Unfortunately, Viking Glass is no longer in production today, having shuttered its doors in 1988. And beyond their gorgeous colors and timeless shapes, their rarity is part of the reason why these pieces are so valuable. A vintage Viking Glass vase, for example, can go for hundreds of dollars on reseller marketplaces like Etsy. If you prefer the bargain of good 'ol-fashioned thrifting, though, there's a chance you might be lucky enough to find one of these sought-after vases. In that case, you'll want to keep your eyes peeled for signs of an authentic Viking Glass vase.

Because of their roots, you can find success in dressing a mid-century, vintage, or Scandinavian decor. You can also style the vases in your home as a complement to contemporary silhouettes and even serve as a contrast to offset sleek, modern furniture. Not only are these glassware items visually striking, but they're also functional, which is another reason to keep them on your radar. Thankfully, these radiant glasses are hard to miss with their stunning hues. Another giveaway is the maker's mark, which should read "Viking," but keep in mind that older products may have faded or be missing this label. Since the glassware is hand-blown, look for its subtle imperfections that distinguish it from machine-blown glass. 

You'll also want to examine the patina and weathering of the piece. Viking Glass began manufacturing over a hundred years ago, so expect some wear, like a sheen on the surface layer of the product. The glass might also appear frosty or have a weathered texture. These signs can indicate the age of the piece, giving more confidence that you may be holding an authentic piece of Viking Glass. If you're still not sure, you can seek an appraiser to confirm its authenticity.