How to identify Murano glass?
Several elements can be used to identify Murano glass, including stickers or signatures, the presence of imperfections such as air bubbles and pontil marks, and the incorporation of 24-karat gold or 925-silver flecks in the glass. The name “Murano” does not refer to a brand of glass, but rather to the Italian island of Murano, where the craft has been honed for hundreds of years. Murano is considered to be among the most prestigious glass decor in the world, as its artisans apprentice for years to learn the nuances of the craft. While not all Murano pieces will come with stickers, signatures, or certificates of authenticity, those that do can be readily authenticated. Air bubbles and pontil marks (an indentation that occurs when the glass is broken from the pontil rod) are not specific to Murano, but they are a sign of high artistry. Similarly, 24-karat gold or 925-silver flecks indicate a top-form craftsman has blown the glass, as heavy metals are notoriously hard to incorporate, not to mention pricey.
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Lead photo by Annie Schlechter