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

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 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

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 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

Is Murano glass worth anything?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some Murano glass is worth something. Typically, antique pieces from the 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th centuries tend to be worth significantly more than 20th-century and contemporary glassware from Murano. Collectors frequently look for pieces made by particular artisans, such as Paolo Venini, Alfredo Barbini, Carlo Scarpa, Vittorio Zecchin, Lino Tagliapetra and Carlo Moretti. Others seek out pieces that display certain glassmaking techniques, such as filigrana, which gives glass a lace-like quality. The size, age, condition, type and style all contribute to the potential value of Murano pieces. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can assist you with the valuation process. Find a large collection of Murano glass 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 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.

Question 20

How do I know if my Murano glass is blown?

Accepted Answer

All Murano glass pieces are either hand-blown or mouth-blown in Murano, Italy. This will cause small imperfections like air bubbles or a Pontil mark. In addition, the glass master will leave his signature on the piece indicating its authenticity. It’s important to purchase from a vetted seller or vendor to ensure authenticity. Shop authentic Murano glass pieces from 1stDibs.

Murano Swirl Glass

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Paperweights

Petite Murano Glass Paperweight Swirl inside Mid-Century Modern, Italy 1960s

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Footed Murano Art Glass Bowl with White Swirls, 1970s

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Paperweights

Murano Glass Paperweight With Swirl Tornado Mid-Century Modern, Italy 1980s

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Pair of Sculptural Swirled Clear Murano Glass Table Lamps, Italy, 1970s

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Fratelli Toso Aventurine Vase with Orange Swirl Mid-Century Modern Murano Glass

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Pair of Vintage White Murano Swirl Mushroom Glass Table Lamps, Italy, 1970s

Vintage 1970s Italian Modern Table Lamps

1970s Modern Monumental Mazzega Style Swirled Murano Glass Table Lamps - Pair

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Murano Fratelli Toso Lime Green Swirl Italian Art Glass Hourglass Flower Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano Opal Pink Aventurine Swirl Italian Art Glass Center Bowl

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

1960 Italy Swirl Chandelier Twisted Amber Clear Murano Glass, Aureliano Toso

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Vintage Large Swirled Murano Glass Pendant Lamp by Vistosi, Italy 1970s

2010s Italian Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

S35 Murano Pendant Ceiling Lamp in White Swirl Glass with Brass

2010s Italian Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

S30 Murano Pendant Ceiling Lamp in White Swirl Glass with Brass

2010s Italian Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

S20 Murano Pendant Ceiling Lamp in White Swirl Glass with Brass

20th Century Italian Modern Flush Mount

Modernist Handblown White Swirling Murano Glass Flush Mount with Brass Fittings

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Medium Murano Vintage Candy pendant creme caramel swirl glass, made in Italy

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Medium Murano Vintage Candy pendant soft blue swirl glass, made in Italy

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount

Large Classic Swirl Murano Glass Ceiling or Wall Lamp, Italy, 1970s

Early 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Large Bold Murano Glass Wall Sconces in Swirled White Marble

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Fratelli Toso Murano Blue Aventurine Swirl Clouds Italian Art Glass Flower Vase

Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Vases

Brown and White Swirl Glass Murano Vase, German, 1970s

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano Vintage Candy oval pendant bubble gum pink swirl glass, Italy

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Barovier Toso Murano Swirl Gold Flecks Orange Red Art Glass Bowl, 1950

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Medium Murano Vintage Candy pendant red / white swirl glass, made in Italy

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Medium Murano Vintage Candy pendant amber orange swirl glass, made in Italy

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Medium Murano Vintage Candy pendant green petrolium swirl glass, made in Italy

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Hand-Blown Murano Glass Dish in Swirled Amethyst with Crimped Detailing

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Murano Green Spatter Swirl Gold Flecks Italian Art Glass Flower Shape Bowls

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Vintage XL Swirled Murano Glass Pendant Lamp La Murrina Italy 1970s

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano Vintage Candy pendant red / white swirl glass, made in Italy

Vintage 1970s Italian Hollywood Regency Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano Swirl Chandelier with Triedi Form Glass Prisms

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano White Rainbow Color Swirls Italian Art Glass Star Bowl

2010s Aruban Space Age Bottles

Pinzan Murano Art Glass Genie Decanter Orange White Yellow Swirls Nautical Shell

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano Vintage Candy pendant orange amber swirl glass, made in Italy

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano Vintage Candy pendant green petrolium swirl glass, made in Italy

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Vintage Xl Swirled Murano Glass Pendant Lamp La Murrina, Italy, 1970s

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Venini Signed Fulvio Bianconi Murano Black White Swirl Italian Art Glass Bowl

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Murano Vintage Candy oval pendant yellow swirl glass, made in Italy

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Murano Sommerso Green Golden Yellow Italian Art Glass Ribbed Swirl Flower Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases