Vintage Glassware: How to Shop the Timeless Trend

What is vintage glassware?

Etsy defines vintage as anything over 20 years old, and vintage glassware includes everything from textured tumblers and etched wine glasses to vintage crystal serving glassware sets and delicately sculpted platters. But antique glassware refers to vintage items that are over 100 years old, so keep that in mind as you search for the next addition to your collection. Vintage green glassware and vintage milk glass are particularly popular, but any piece of glassware that is older than 20 years old can be considered vintage glassware.

Vintage glassware styles to keep in mind:

Glass brands: Certain styles are specific to certain brands, so if you find something you like, keep an eye on their maker’s mark (more on that later). Collectors covet brands like vintage Libbey glassware and their mid century-style tumblers or vintage Anchor Hocking glassware, which can date back to the early 1900s.

• Stem sensations: Add a playful touch to your bar cart with zigzag-stemmed martini glasses, vintage squiggle stems, or ‘90s-style spiral stems.
• Elegant occasions: If you want to channel more feminine garden party vibes, try etched wine glasses for your favorite libations, floral coups for toasting and hosting, or art deco boopie glasses for a vintage-inspired sherbet dessert.
• Textured vintage glassware: Texture can add intrigue to your collection and has the benefit of bouncing the light just-so. Whether you choose frosty, ice-textured vintage glassware like the iconic Scandinavian Littala Senaattori glassware, daintily etched glass that paints a picture for each admirer, or plates made from intricately carved molds, you’ll have an eye-catching piece for every occasion.

Anchor Hocking glassware

Anchor Hocking Royal Ruby Collection

How to identify vintage glassware

Vintage glassware comes in all shapes and sizes, and certain styles only avid collectors can identify, but there are a few simple rules of thumb to follow. Luckily, Etsy has the convenient “vintage” search filter that will help you eliminate some of the guesswork. Antique glassware is often a bit heavier than more modern glass, and certain styles and shapes are indicative of certain eras and brands.



The most effective way to identify vintage glassware, though, is by the brand marking on the bottom of your glassware. For example, vintage Anchor Hocking glassware can date back to the early 1900s, but some of their most popular items are their Depression glass and their signature “Royal Ruby” collection. Because it and other brands have been around for over 100 years, their mark has had some variation over time, but for most of the popular vintage Anchor Hocking glassware, look for a mark that is an image of an anchor with an H through the center. For vintage Libbey glassware, check the cursive “L” marking to verify the brand. Whatever brand you are most interested in, research the markings for your desired era of vintage glassware so you can purchase with confidence.

How to shop for vintage glassware

With such a wide variety of glassware styles available from expert curators and collectors, shopping for vintage glassware on Etsy is easy. Follow these quick tips to start building the collection of your dreams.

1. Add the vintage filter: When searching for vintage glassware on Etsy, click on the filters and make sure that “vintage” is selected under “item type.” That way, you’ll avoid vintage-inspired handmade goods and go straight to the items that are 20 years or older.
2. Shop by location: You can filter your search results using the Shop Location filter to find Etsy sellers near and far. Looking in your area may help reduce shipping costs (it’s also a great way to support local artists and minimize your carbon footprint!), but you can also get creative with it, Lindsay says: "Think: champagne glasses straight from France."
3. Don't be afraid to mix and match: Eclectic style is in, and different colors and styles of glassware can create a beautiful dining mosaic—or let you choose what type of mood you’re in for each meal. "You can collect different colors and styles that speak to you over time, or purchase all at once in a bulk set," Lindsay says.
4. Use keywords: If you're looking to fill a specific function, add it to your search—keywords such as tumbler, drinking glass, highball, coup, etc. This will be helpful in narrowing your search even if you don't have a particular style in mind. "Don't fear if you’re not sure where to begin," Lindsay advises. "The discovery is part of the fun! As you browse, just take note of commonalities and descriptive words used in the listings that speak to you, and refine your search accordingly. For example, maybe you'll start to notice that all of the listings you're drawn to are 'mid century modern' or 'gold rimmed.'”
5. Complete your set with multiple listings: Found the perfect glasses but wish there were more? Try searching for the specific brand/style to see if other sellers are offering additional pieces that you can purchase to build a larger, more complete set for your needs.
6. Check the return policy: Note the shop’s return policy before you add to cart. In the rare cases that something goes wrong, Etsy’s Purchase Protection has your back, and you can get a full refund if your purchase doesn’t match the item description, arrives damaged, or never arrives. Learn more about Etsy Purchase Protection here.
7. Consider the glassware’s age and purpose: Vintage crystal glassware, for example, is typically more likely to contain lead, so keep that in mind if you are hoping to use your collection for eating and drinking or simply for display.

Pro tip: Lindsay suggests checking out the “Etsy’s Picks” filter to see some of our merchandising team’s favorite finds!

Types of vintage glassware

Now that you know the basics of how to identify and shop for vintage glassware, take a peek at some of the styles you’re going to love.

Vintage green glassware

Dial up the 1950s and 1970s style with vintage green glassware. Whether you opt for a textured cup for an afternoon tea or goblets for enjoying your favorite drink, these verdant beauties are as stylish in your springtime garden party as they are at your fancy holiday soiree.

Vintage pink glassware

Most often associated with Depression glass, vintage pink glassware had multiple surges in popularity in the 1980s and more recently (thanks to the millennial pink and Parisian decor trends), and it’s easy to see why: The rosy color offers a cheerful, feminine boost to your barware, and it has the extra-special bonus of being a charming element for a Valentine’s Day drink at home.

Vintage crystal glassware

Vintage crystal glassware has the added benefit of creating gorgeous prisms that can light up the whole room. Opt for a vintage crystal glass ashtray for stashing some bonbons for guests (or as a jewelry dish for you!), enjoy a retro soda fountain fantasy with a set of parfait glasses, or even use some of the older, leaded crystal glassware as sophisticated catch-alls and desk organizers.

Vintage red glassware

For a gorgeous pop of rich, ruby hues, look no further than vintage red glassware, which had its hey-day in its mid-century boom. In order to make these beauties feel at home, pair them with oak tablescapes and warm orange or pea green linens for a conversation-pit-worthy fete.

Vintage milk glassware

Another mid-century darling that can date back as far as the late 1800s(!), vintage milk glassware is aptly named for its white color that goes with anything and everything. A bud vase for your latest colorful blooms? Check. A divided tray to welcome guests with a suite of hors d'oeuvres? Check. All with a delightfully textured, neutral palette? Check, check, check!