Milk glass vases are distinctive decorative containers made from a specific type of opaque white glass that was highly popular in America and England from 1835 through the 1980s.
Understanding Milk Glass Vases
Milk glass vases stand out due to the unique properties of the material from which they are crafted. The term "milk glass" is predominantly used to describe a specific white glass that achieved widespread popularity for over a century.
What is Milk Glass?
The term "milk glass" almost always refers to the white glass that was popular from 1835 through the 1980s in America and England. While opaque glass can be produced in various colors, this particular white variety is the most recognized form of milk glass. It was widely used for a diverse range of items, from dinnerware to lighting fixtures, and, notably, decorative vases.
How Milk Glass Was Made
The unique, opaque, and slightly luminous appearance of milk glass, characteristic of the vases made from it, was achieved through specific manufacturing techniques. To create this distinctive material, early manufacturers added arsenic to their standard glass recipes. This crucial addition yielded a product that was not only opaque but also possessed a faintly grayish hue and a nicely opalescent effect. This opalescence gives milk glass its signature soft, milky glow, making milk glass vases a timeless addition to home decor for their classic elegance and subtle sheen.
