Collecting Milk Glass

With its origins in 16th century Venice, milk glass comes in a range of colors, among them white, pink, green, and yellow.  It became popular during the Victorian era, when it was seen as a cheaper alternative to porcelain.  Due to wide-spread production in the 50s and 60s, mid-century pieces from companies like Fenton, Westmoreland and Anchor Hocking are readily available today.  One way to make sure that a piece is the real deal (60’s and earlier) is to hold it up to the light.  Antique milk glass was made with iridized salts, and this produces a halo effect of iridescent reds, blues and greens.   Take a look at this Pinterest board  to get some great ideas on how to decorate with milk glass.