Is Candlewick Worth Anything?

Candlewick glassware refers to pressed and molded glass tableware that was popular in America during the Depression era of the 1930s. It featured elegant geometric and floral designs that resembled lace, leading to its nickname of “lace glass.” Candlewick gets its name from the Candlewick Glass Company of Massachusetts, which specialized in this style of glassware in colors like crystal, green, pink, and blue.

Candlewick glassware is prized by collectors today for its intricate hand-cut patterns, variety of colors, high quality craftsmanship, and association with a classic era of decorative arts. The rarity of pieces in good condition and the demand from Art Deco collectors helps drive up values. Authentic Candlewick glass can sell for anywhere from $20 for common pieces to over $1000 for rare designs and colors.

Origins

Candlewick glassware first originated in the mid-1930s at the Imperial Glass Company in Bellaire, Ohio. According to Arcadia News, Candlewick was manufactured at Imperial Glass from 1936 to 1984 [1]. The glass got its name from the Colonial-style needlework called “candlewicking,” which inspired the glass’s signature edges [2]. Imperial Glass founder Edward Muhleman and designer Frank Fenton played key roles in creating Candlewick.

Characteristics of Candlewick Glass

Candlewick glass is known for its delicate, airy appearance and distinctive geometric designs. Some of the signature elements that define the Candlewick style include:

– Intricate hand-cut facets and prisms – Candlewick pieces often feature elaborate allover cuts that refract and reflect light beautifully. The precision faceting creates a sparkling, crystalline effect.

– Pressed glass techniques – Molded ribs, circular stamps, and other pressed designs add subtle texture and visual interest. Pressed Candlewick retains a handmade artisanal look.

– Geometric patterns – Repeating geometric motifs like stars, circles, diagonal lines, and diamond shapes are hallmarks of Candlewick. The mathematical patterns create a sense of rhythmic movement.

– Decorative finishes – Many Candlewick pieces have an iridized or opalescent finish that gives them a rainbow-like luster.

In terms of the types of pieces produced, Candlewick encompassed a wide array of decorative and functional wares. Some typical Candlewick items include vases, bowls, plates, goblets, candlesticks, perfume bottles, and more. The pressed and cut glass techniques lent themselves well to symmetrical vessels with flat facets.

Rarity

As a smaller pottery company, Candlewick produced many items in limited quantities, making certain pieces quite rare. Their most sought-after and rarest items include:

• Early pieces from the 1920s-1930s before they reached mass production – These include vases, bowls, and plates with more handmade detailing.
• Unusual glaze colors like cobalt blue, peach, pink, and turquoise – Most Candlewick items featured basic green and ivory glazes, so colors beyond this palette are rare.
• Specialty one-of-a-kind commissions – Wealthy customers sometimes commissioned custom Candlewick pieces as gifts or personal pieces.
• Items marked with the artist’s signature or date – Only some Candlewick pieces feature an artist’s mark, making these more valuable.
• Limited edition and commemorative pieces – Candlewick produced some limited runs for special occasions like anniversaries.

Due to small production quantities and fragile nature, finding these rare Candlewick items intact today is a challenge, which increases their value and collectibility.

Collectibility

Candlewick glassware has become quite popular among antique collectors over the years. Its delicate beauty and handmade artistry make it a prized addition to any glassware collection. Some of the most avid Candlewick collectors look for rare patterns, colors, and items in pristine condition. There are Candlewick collector clubs and groups that provide community and resources for enthusiasts. Major public collections featuring Candlewick glass include the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Smithsonian Institution, and Corning Museum of Glass. Prominent private collectors have amassed large collections of Candlewick too. As Candlewick has become more sought after by collectors, prices have steadily increased, especially for rare pieces. The collectibility and rarity of Candlewick ensure that it will remain a treasured antique for generations to come.

Value Factors

Some of the key factors that determine the value of Candlewick glassware include:

Condition – Candlewick pieces in pristine, mint condition with no chips, cracks, or other damage will fetch higher prices than pieces that are heavily used and have wear and tear. Minor utensil marks and flea bites can lower Candlewick values.

Maker marks – Candlewick produced by certain glass houses and with particular stamps and etchings can be more collectible. For example, early pieces marked with Candlewick in an oval bring a premium.

Rarity – Rare, unusual Candlewick pieces and uncommon colors and patterns tend to be most prized by collectors and museums. Commonplace items are generally worth less than unique designs and decorator colors.

Provenance – Candlewick pieces that come with documentation showing their history and ownership often sell for more. Knowing an item was owned by a celebrity or came from a significant estate can increase value.

Price Range

Candlewick glass has a wide range of values depending on rarity, condition, and desirability. Here are some guidelines on price ranges:

For common Candlewick pieces like cake plates, candy dishes, and vases, prices typically range from $15 to $75 in antique shops and online auctions. More unique pieces like decanters, punchbowls, and chalices tend to range from $50 to $200.

Rarer pieces and those in exceptional condition can fetch much higher prices. Some record sales include:

• A 7-inch Candlewick vase sold for $1,125 at a 2005 auction.
• A set of 12 Candlewick water goblets went for $1,760 in 2007.
• A Candlewick lamp base was sold for $2,300 in 2010.

These high prices are not the norm, but serve to demonstrate the upper end of Candlewick’s value range for very special pieces. Factors like being unsigned, damaged, or having common designs will decrease value. But mint condition, highly decorative pieces, or special one-off shapes can bring impressive prices.

Authentication

Authenticating Candlewick glassware requires examining several hallmarks that indicate it was produced by the Imperial Glass Company between 1936-1984:

• The Imperial Glass Company mark etched on the bottom – this will include the letters “IG” inside a diamond shape
• A mold number on the bottom starting with #800-#1999 for earlier pieces or #2000-2999 for later pieces
• Pontil marks on the base indicating the method of production
• A hand-painted Candlewick pattern featuring brushstroke painted flowers, leaves, etc.
• An iridescent rainbow-like coloring effect

There are many Candlewick reproductions, so authentication by an expert is recommended for more valuable pieces. Professional authentication services include Jack Gilliland’s Candlewick Authentication, which examines pieces and provides a detailed, signed letter of authenticity.

Care and Maintenance

Candlewick glassware requires gentle care and handling to preserve its delicate frosted finish. When storing candlewick, avoid stacking items to prevent scratches. Wrap each piece in soft cloth or tissue paper. Cleaning should be done by hand with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh detergents or chemicals that could damage the finish.

According to experts, the cloudy look that sometimes develops on candlewick glass happens when minerals in water adhere to the textured surface. To remove cloudiness, a light vinegar rinse or very mild glass cleaner may help. However over-cleaning or scrubbing too hard can wear down the frosted pattern over time. Handwash gently using minimal pressure.

Candlewick should never be washed in the dishwasher, as the heat and harsh detergents will likely damage the glass. The safest approach is always handwashing and prompt drying with a soft towel. With proper care, candlewick glassware can remain an attractive part of any vintage collection for generations.

Sources: https://kovels.com/collectors-questions/cleaning-cloudy-candlewick-glass.html, http://ahintofhome.blogspot.com/2011/02/candlewick-dishes.html

Conclusion

In summary, Candlewick glass has a long and storied history dating back to the early 1800s in America. It is characterized by its thin, transparent appearance and intricate pressed designs. While not extremely rare, finer pieces of antique Candlewick can be quite valuable and sought after by collectors. Factors like age, condition, design, and maker all contribute to Candlewick’s value. Pieces can range in price from $20 for more common examples up to $1,000 or more for rarer museum-quality pieces. Proper identification and authentication are important to verify true antique Candlewick. With proper care and maintenance, Candlewick glass can be preserved for many years to come.

Candlewick maintains an enduring popularity among antique glass collectors for its delicate beauty, handmade craftsmanship, and nostalgic Americana designs. The value and appreciation for quality antique Candlewick pieces is likely to only increase as supplies dwindle and demand rises. Candlewick’s legacy lives on as an iconic example of Early American pressed glass.