Depression glass is a type of inexpensive, mass-produced glassware that was made primarily in the United States during the Great Depression era, from the 1920s through the early 1940s. It was often given away for free or sold very cheaply—frequently found in cereal boxes, gas station promotions, or movie theater giveaways—as a way to bring some color and brightness into households during hard economic times.
Key Characteristics:
- Colors: Often brightly colored (pink, green, amber, blue, amethyst, yellow, and clear).
- Patterns: Typically pressed or molded with intricate patterns like florals, geometrics, or swirls.
- Materials: Made from inexpensive pressed glass, not blown or cut, and usually not high-end crystal.
Top Depression Glass Patterns to Collect
Here are some of the most popular and collectible types, along with notable patterns and manufacturers:
1. Pink Depression Glass
- Why it’s popular: Iconic and widely loved color; often seen as the face of Depression glass.
- Collectible Patterns:
- “Princess” by Hocking Glass (1931–1934) – Floral, rectangular motifs.
- “Cherry Blossom” by Jeannette Glass (1930–1939) – One of the most reproduced; delicate flower design.
2. Green Depression Glass
- Why it’s popular: Often uranium-based, glows under UV light (called “vaseline glass”).
- Collectible Patterns:
- “Cameo” (Ballerina) by Hocking (1930–1934) – Features a ballerina in a cameo-style oval.
- “Sharon” (Cabbage Rose) by Federal Glass (1935–1939) – Bold floral design; highly sought after.
3. Amber Depression Glass
- Warm, honey-brown tones that are less common but very attractive.
- Collectible Patterns:
- “Madrid” by Federal Glass (1932–1939) – Intricate scrolls and fans.
- “Patrician” (Spoke) by Federal (1933–1937) – Elegant radial symmetry.
4. Blue Depression Glass
- Brilliant sapphire or ice blue colors, some highly valuable.
- Collectible Patterns:
- “Royal Lace” by Hazel-Atlas (1934–1941) – Very ornate and detailed, arguably the most collectible pattern.
- “Moderntone” by Hazel-Atlas (1934–1942) – Simple, modern rings and lines.
5. Clear or Crystal Depression Glass
- Sometimes overlooked, but certain patterns and etchings are rare.
- Collectible Patterns:
- “Mayfair” (Open Rose) by Hocking (1931–1937) – Available in many colors but prized in clear as well.
- “American Sweetheart” by MacBeth-Evans (1930–1936) – Has an opalescent tint in some versions.
Tips for Collecting
- Condition matters: Look for pieces free of chips and cracks.
- Beware of reproductions: Some patterns like “Cherry Blossom” and “Madrid” have many reproductions. Check authentic guides or use black light for uranium-based glass.
- Start small: Cups, saucers, or plates are good entry points.
- Mix and match: Many collectors enjoy mixing colors and patterns for a unique display.
Several manufacturers defined the Depression glass era, producing iconic patterns and colors that are still highly collectible today. Here are some of the best and most notable Depression glass manufacturers, along with highlights of what they’re known for:
1. Hocking Glass Company
Location: Lancaster, Ohio
Years Active: 1905–1937 (later merged to become Anchor Hocking)
Notable Patterns:
- “Cameo” (Ballerina) – Elegant ballerina figure; very collectible.
- “Mayfair” (Open Rose) – Romantic floral design, produced in pink, green, and blue.
- “Princess” – Detailed geometric pattern in pink and green.
Why Collect?
Hocking was one of the largest producers and is known for vibrant colors (especially pink and green). Their patterns are iconic and varied.
2. Federal Glass Company
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Years Active: 1900–1980
Notable Patterns:
- “Sharon” (Cabbage Rose) – Deep floral embossing, often in pink or green.
- “Madrid” – Swirled, sunburst pattern; later reproduced.
- “Patrician” (Spoke) – Art Deco inspired with radial motifs.
Why Collect?
Federal made durable glassware with strong patterns, often in amber and green. Their designs are bold and easier to identify.
Hazel-Atlas Glass Company
Location: Wheeling, West Virginia
Years Active: 1902–1964
Notable Patterns:
- “Royal Lace” – Arguably the most valuable pattern, especially in cobalt blue.
- “Moderntone” – Sleek and simple, often in blue and pink.
- “Ovide” – A plainer, more minimalist line of glassware.
Why Collect?
Hazel-Atlas offered both elegant and utilitarian styles, including some of the rarest and most coveted patterns like “Royal Lace.”
Jeannette Glass Company
Location: Jeannette, Pennsylvania
Years Active: 1887–1983
Notable Patterns:
- “Cherry Blossom” – One of the most recognizable and also most faked.
- “Adam” – A simpler pattern with rectangular motifs.
- “Iris and Herringbone” – More elegant, made later and often mistaken for Depression-era.
Why Collect?
Jeannette was prolific and innovative, with rich color production (pink, ultramarine, green) and charming designs.
MacBeth-Evans Glass Company
Location: Charleroi, Pennsylvania
Years Active: 1899–1936 (merged into Corning Glass)
Notable Patterns:
- “American Sweetheart” – Thin, delicate glass with opalescent sheen.
- “Dogwood” – Floral, etched design often in pastel pink or white.
Why Collect?
MacBeth-Evans specialized in translucent and pastel-colored glass, often called Monax or opalware. Their pieces feel more refined and delicate.
Indiana Glass Company
Location: Dunkirk, Indiana
Years Active: Early 1900s–2002
Notable Patterns:
- “Avocado” – Produced in the later period but often included in Depression glass collections.
- “Tea Room” – Angular, architectural design.
Why Collect?
Indiana Glass straddled both Depression-era and later collectible periods. While some of their patterns are less “purely” Depression glass, they offer accessible entry points for collectors.
U.S. Glass Company
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Years Active: 1891–1960s
Notable Patterns:
- “Floral and Diamond Band” – Simple but elegant.
- “States” – Named for the 50 states with raised designs; fun to collect regionally.
Why Collect?
Less well-known but still made quality patterns, often in golden amber and clear glass.
Summary Table
| Manufacturer | Famous Pattern(s) | Best Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Hocking | Cameo, Mayfair, Princess | Bold colors, floral designs |
| Federal | Sharon, Madrid, Patrician | Durable, richly embossed patterns |
| Hazel-Atlas | Royal Lace, Moderntone | High-end, cobalt blue, modern lines |
| Jeannette | Cherry Blossom, Adam | Iconic pink glass, high volume |
| MacBeth-Evans | American Sweetheart, Dogwood | Delicate, opalescent glass |
| Indiana Glass | Avocado, Tea Room | Affordable, geometric designs |
| U.S. Glass | Floral and Diamond Band | Rare, collectible regional styles |