Shining, shimmering, splendid—some for good cause—vintage glassware you can buy on Instagram

By: 4 years ago

For Instagram newcomers and established sellers alike—the mine game lives on. It’s less about ceramic wares now. The latest must-haves are more transparent, shiny objects: vintage glassware and Murano items.

[READ: “Mine, Next:” 11 IG shops for vintage tableware, home decor and ceramic hunting]

If you’re not familiar with the term, Murano glass refers to a craft specifically made in the island town of Murano near Venice, which traces its roots to the Middle Ages. The glassware is characterized by odd shapes, speckled and richly colored surface (although it sometimes gravitates towards muted hues), and fluid edges.

Once a burgeoning business that attracted many collectors, the craft is now confined to an island of a few thousand residents and older generations trying to keep the art alive, while sons and daughters choose different paths. But the wares from its rebirth during the 20th century remain coveted by collectors as well as museums.

Earlier in September, T, the New York Times Style Magazine, published an article on the forgotten art of Murano glass and how a younger generation of designers are taking inspiration from it. It didn’t take long for local sellers—on Instagram nonetheless—to take notice and decide to focus on these specific wares instead of mining the oversaturated market of ceramics.

In this list, you will find crowd-favorites when it comes to vintage crystals and Murano glassware. Oftentimes, a seller offers a mix of both glass and ceramic items, but just the same, each is a one-of-a-kind piece from a bygone era.

In light of the recent typhoons that ravaged several parts of the country, some of these online stores are donating a portion of sales to relief operations.