Question 1

What is Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass is colorful art glass primarily produced on Murano, an island in Venice, Italy. Artisans produce a variety of Murano glass decorative objects, including vases, lamps, candle holders, figurines, bowls and wine glasses. Shop a selection of Murano glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 2

How is Murano glass marked?

Accepted Answer

How Murano glass is marked varies. Some pieces feature a label, sticker or other mark that bears the name of the studio that produced them. Others may only have an artist's signature or be unmarked. However, Murano glass artisans rarely put the word "Murano" on their pieces, though you will often see the word on replicas. For assistance determining whether a particular piece is Murano, consult an expert appraiser or antiques dealer. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Murano glass.

Question 3

Does Murano glass have markings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Murano glass is typically marked. You will usually find the markings on the bases of pieces or in other inconspicuous areas. Generally, Murano glass will display a trademark and a maker's mark, indicating which shop produced it. In most cases, authentic Murano glass will not have the word "Murano" on it. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of Murano glass.

Question 4

Does Murano glass break?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Murano glass can break. Generally considered very durable, Murano glass is still made of glass and it is susceptible to breaks if it’s improperly handled or dropped. Known as some of the best glass produced in the world, unfortunately it can still break. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Murano glass pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 5

Where does Murano glass come from?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass comes from Murano, an island located in the Venetian Lagoon to the north of Venice, Italy. Many people mistake the name Murano for that of a brand or company, but the term actually applies to glassware produced by a variety of makers. Fratelli Toso, Umberto Bellotto, the Salviati family, Ercole Barovier, Carlo Scarpa, Paolo Venini and Alfredo Barbini are just some of the glassblowers known for producing Murano glass. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of Murano glass.

Question 6

Where is Murano glass signed?

Accepted Answer

Authentic Murano glass often, but not always, includes labels with the name of the workshop, the signature of the glass master and a certificate of authenticity. To best determine if a Murano glass is authentic, look up the location of the factory found on the label. All authentic Murano glass is produced in Venice or Murano. Always purchase Murano glass from a reputable seller to ensure authenticity. Browse a selection of authentic Murano glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What are the characteristics of Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass, from the Venetian island of Murano, is world-renowned for excellent craftsmanship and a wide variety of colors and decorations. The glassmakers of Murano use methods honed over centuries to create rich colors and designs by mixing different minerals during the process. Many examples contain gold and silver flecks inside the glass. You’ll find a collection of authentic Murano glass from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What is Murano glass made of?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass is made of a combination of materials. In most cases, artisans use a blend of silica, soda, lime and potassium to produce the colorful art glass. The mixture gets heated to a high temperature to melt it, so that glassblowers can form it into various shapes. On 1stDibs, find a selection of Murano glass.

Question 9

Can Murano glass be clear?

Accepted Answer

Although Murano glass is usually brightly colored, there are a few varieties of clear Murano glass. Cristallo glass, which is achieved by a process of bleaching, is a type of clear Murano glass. Shop a range of antique and vintage Murano glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 10

What is Aventurine in Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano Aventurine is glass that has been decorated with a surface effect which resembles shimmering specks found in quartz. This technique was pioneered by Murano in the 17th century. On 1stDibs, find Murano glass products from top sellers around the world.

Question 11

Why is it called Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

It is called Murano glass because of its place of origin. During the 13th century, artisans on the island of Murano in Venice, Italy, became famous for producing colorful glassware. Find a range of Murano glass from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Is Murano glass valuable?

Accepted Answer

Whether Murano glass is valuable depends on a variety of factors, including the type of piece and its condition. Artisans on Murano, an island in Venice, Italy, produce the colorful glassware through a unique process. Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. One of the earliest Venetian glass furnaces is believed to have been established as far back as the 8th century (the filigrana technique is as old as the 16th century). A certified appraiser can help you determine the value and authenticity of a particular piece. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Murano glassware.

Question 13

Is Murano glass worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many glass lovers believe that Murano glass is worth it. Murano glass is named for the Venetian island of Murano, where glassmaking has been practiced for centuries. The glass is made using a variety of artisanal processes and is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Every vintage Murano glass decorative object is unique. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and irregular shapes due to the freeform creation process. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Murano glass is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Murano glass and other art glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Is Murano blown glass?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Murano is blown glass. Artisans on Murano, an island in Venice, Italy, produce the colorful glassware through a unique process. Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. One of the earliest Venetian glass furnaces is believed to have been established as far back as the 8th century (the filigrana technique is as old as the 16th century). On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Murano glassware from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 15

How can I identify Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. Find a collection of authentic Murano glass from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What is the difference between Venetian glass and Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

There is no real difference between Venetian glass and Murano glass. While both Venetian glass and Murano glass come from Murano Island, Venice is a more popular location than Murano, hence it is called widely as Venetian glass. You can use both search terms to find the best piece for you on 1stDibs.

Question 17

How much is Murano glass worth?

Accepted Answer

How much Murano glass is worth depends on the size as well as on other factors. New Murano glass necklaces may cost up to $35 depending on the number of beads — a vintage Murano glass necklace may garner considerably more money — whereas a vase made of Murano glass can cost a few thousand dollars. Antique Murano art glass can fetch thousands of dollars at auction depending on the brand, the history of the piece, the technique used to design the piece and more. Find a collection of antique and vintage Murano glass jewelry and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Does Murano glass have a Pontil mark?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Murano glass does indeed have a pontil mark. Murano glass is individually blown in Venice, Italy, and the mark at the bottom is made by the rod used by the artisan when they shape the piece. Shop a collection of Murano glass pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 19

How can you tell if Murano glass is vintage?

Accepted Answer

To tell if Murano glass is vintage, it's usually necessary to conduct some online research using trusted sources. Start by looking for a maker's mark and then cross-referencing it with images published online to determine who made your piece. By learning more about the manufacturer and what they produced over the years by reading histories and exploring product catalogues, you can estimate the rough age of your piece. For Murano glass to be considered vintage, it must be between 20 and 99 years old. Older pieces are classified as antique. If you need assistance with dating your glassware, seek the help of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Explore a range of Murano glass on 1stDibs.

Question 20

How can you tell if a glass fruit is Murano?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a Murano glass fruit is real, look for the signature of the artist or factory on the piece. Authentic Murano glass often, but not always, includes labels with the name of the workshop, the signature of the glass master and a certificate of authenticity. Use trusted online resources to determine if the maker's location is or was in Murano, in northeastern Italy. Seeing the word "Murano" on a glass decorative object doesn't mean that it is authentic. In fact, most genuine pieces won't show the word "Murano." Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. If you need assistance authenticating a piece, seek the help of a licensed appraiser. Shop a selection of Murano glass decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Murano Glass Barovier

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Ercole Barovier for Barovier and Toso Murano Glass Striato Vase Signed

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Pair of Barovier Murano Glass Moorish Figures

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Barovier Toso Murano Round Sky Blue Color Glass Plate, 1980

Vintage 1940s Glass

Ercole Barovier Mirror-Engraved Murano Glass Italian Serving Tray, 1940s

Vintage 1960s Italian Other Centerpieces

Barovier e Toso Centerpiece Murano Glass 1965 Italy

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Centerpieces

Barovier e Toso Centerpiece Murano Glass, 1940, Italy

Mid-20th Century Italian Rococo Revival Glass

Murano Barovier Style Vanity Tray with Etched Mirror and Twisted Glass Rope

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Murano Glass Flowers Ceiling Lamp Chandelier by Barovier Toso, 1950s

Vintage 1950s Italian International Style Glass

Vase in Murano Glass attributed to Ercole Barovier circa 1955

Vintage 1930s Italian Modern Centerpieces

Ercole Barovier Murano Glass and Gold Centerpiece for Artistica Barovier

Vintage 1960s Italian Space Age Glass

Big Clear Murano Glass Bottle Attributed to Barovier Toso, 1960s

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Barovier Toso Murano Round Sky Blue Color Glass Plate, 1980

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Centerpieces

Barovier e Toso “Centerpiece “ Murano Glass “ “Rostrato” 1940 Italy

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Centerpieces

Barovier e Toso Centerpiece “Rostrato” Murano Glass, 1940, Italy

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Centerpieces

Barovier e Toso Centerpiece “Rostrato” Murano Glass, 1940, Italy

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Crystal Serveware

Ercole Barovier Mirror-Engraved Murano Glass Italian Serving Tray, 1940s

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Pitchers

Barovier e Toso Portafoto Murano Glass Brass, 1940, Italy

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Ashtrays

Barovier Toso Ashtray Empties Pockets Murano Glass, 1940, Italy

Vintage 1950s Italian Art Deco Glass

Set of 3 Murano Vanity Decorative Blown Glass with Gold by Barovier, Italy 1950s

Vintage 1950s Italian International Style Glass

Center piece in Murano glass by Ercole Barovier 1950 "cordonato oro"

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Serving Pieces

Barovier Hexagonal Serving Tray Blue Murano Glass Mirror-Engraved, Italy 1940s

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Serving Pieces

Barovier Green Italian Serving Tray in Mirror-Etched Murano Glass, 1940s

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Glass

1930s Ercole Barovier Art Deco Italian Murano Glass Smoking Set

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

1960s Barovier Style Green and Gold Bullicante Murano Glass Ashtray and Pestle

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

1950 Barovier e Toso "Zanfirico" Glass and Silver Italian Murano Bowl

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Ercole Barovier for Barovier and Toso Murano Art Glass Barbarico Vase in Black

Mid-20th Century Italian Modern Barware

Tortoiseshell Murano Glass Brass Decanter, Attributed to Barovier Toso

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Centerpieces

Barovier e Toso Couple Centerpiece “Rostrato“ Murano Glass, 1940, Italy

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Crystal Serveware

Barovier e Toso Murano Glass Rostrato Centerpiece, 1940, Italy

Vintage 1950s Italian International Style Centerpieces

Center Piece in Murano glass attributed to Barovier&Toso 1950

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Barovier&Toso ashtray in Murano glass with gold circa 1950.

Vintage 1960s Italian Modern Glass

Vintage Rostrato vase in clear Murano glass by Barovier and Toso, Italian 1960s

Vintage 1980s Italian Romantic Centerpieces

Caravaggio Cup Murano Glass Centerpiece by Barovier Toso from the 1980s

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Centerpieces

Barovier and Toso Centerpiece/ Empty Pockets Iridescent Murano Glass 1940 Italy

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Barovier Toso Italian Mid-Century Murano Glass Standing Ashtray

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Glass

White and Clear "Mezza Filigrana" Murano Glass Plate by Barovier Toso, 1980s

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Barovier Toso Italian Vintage Art Glass Rostrato Murano Vase / Bowl, circa 1938

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Barovier Toso Murano Purple Gold Flecks Italian Art Glass Chunky Ashtray Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Barovier Murano Gold Flecks Purple Leafs Italian Art Glass Spoon Rest Dishes

Vintage 1940s Italian Other Ashtrays