Often we discuss the beauty of French antique furniture only sharing a dash of our love for other French antiques such as glassware, Limoges and porcelains. We were recently reminded just how much we adore French glassware when we came across an article on antiques in Southern Accents. If you also have a special place in your heart for French glassware keep these tips in mind as you head out shopping:

What to look for: The most popular example available today is the panel-cut style in all sizes.

Condition: Any sign of damage will adversely affect the value to some degree. Minor chips are not important, neither is silking (a sign of internal deterioration that produces a faint, light frosting seen when the glass is held to the light), or glasses that aren’t the same height since handmade glassware varies in size. However cracked vessels, or those with crizzling (in which the glass appears opaque and has fine surface crackling) greatly affect the monetary value.

Price range: Glassware is portable which makes it easy to collect, as well as a good investment. Today a typical panel-cut stemmed water glass sells for about $125. Panel-cut flutes for $110 to $125, and a good quality verre de fougère no less than $500. (Southern Accents)

Do you currently collect French glassware? If so what’s your favorite piece in your collection?

Image by Howard L. Puckett for Southern Accents.