No, It's Not A Pyrex Bowl — The Valuable Vintage Piece We Want Back On Our Kitchen Tables

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Pyrex is a well-known name in the collectibles market. Anyone who's keen on thrifting cool vintage finds is always on the hunt for this brand. There are a variety of incredible pieces from this reputable brand to look out for. Of course, the classic Pyrex bowls or casserole dishes tend to get most of the attention. But there's a diverse array of lesser-known vintage products from this brand you shouldn't overlook.

Pyrex salt and pepper shakers are lovely pieces to bring into your home. These small thrift store finds are easy to gloss over. At first glance, they may not look like much. But just like other Pyrex kitchenware from the 1950s to the 1960s, these pieces are rare, and sometimes valuable, items to stumble across. Depending on the pattern and condition, a set of Pyrex salt and pepper shakers can be valued at anywhere between $15 to $50 if not even more for rare or deadstock models. They come in a variety of patterns that match other vintage Pyrex staples. Many of them embody a classic mid-century modern aesthetic with curvy shapes, colorful accents, and Atomic Age patterns. And, you may recognize the signature fluted conical shakers that were unique to Pyrex.

While this brand still produces a wide variety of kitchen essentials, they no longer produce salt and pepper shakers. So when you shop for this collectible, not only can you collect discontinued Pyrex patterns, but you also have the chance to score a product that's not even made by the company anymore. Salt and pepper shakers may seem like inconsequential pieces to collect, but these small decorative accents can add a playful bit of personality to your space. The beauty of interior design lies in the details, after all.

Tracking down Pyrex at secondhand stores is a skill. It's helpful to familiarize yourself with the various patterns these vintage pieces came in to quickly pick them out from a sea of junk. While many of the salt and pepper shakers feature a distinct mark on the bottom (reading TRADE MARK PYREX), indicating that it's a design from the noted glassware brand, some of these pieces will be unmarked. For example, most of the salt and pepper shakers in the popular Old Town Blue pattern do not have obvious markings to indicate the brand. That's why knowing the classic Pyrex patterns can be so valuable when searching for these pieces.

With a keen eye, you can absolutely find Pyrex salt and pepper shakers at your local thrift shop. However, there's no telling if you'll be able to find an intact set in good condition. Antique shops are a great place to look for items in better condition. If you still don't have any luck, consider looking online. You can find a wide variety of options on sites such as Etsy, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. Just be warned that these catalogs may not be as affordable as a thrift shop or estate sale.

If you already own a set of salt and pepper shakers, but you still feel drawn to these Pyrex collectibles, you can always find an alternate purpose for them. For instance, you can opt to use them for different spices you use regularly, like garlic powder or paprika. For an even more unique utility, try using your salt and pepper shakers as mini bud vases for small flowers. This is a sweet application especially if you have a little one who likes to pick flowers from your yard.