How do I clean an antique glass vase safely?

Wash the glass by hand in warm water using a mild, non-abrasive detergent and line the sink with a soft towel to prevent chipping the rim or base. Avoid extreme temperature changes that can crack old crystal, and use a soft bottle brush only if the interior requires gentle agitation.

Can I use these vases for fresh flowers?

Most sturdy vintage vessels function well with water and stems, provided the glass is free from internal hairline cracks or delicate enamel work that water might degrade. Remove metal inserts or silver-plated collars before filling the main chamber to prevent tarnishing or corrosion over time.

How do I distinguish Art Deco from Victorian glass?

Victorian pieces typically favour heavy cut patterns, cranberry or cobalt colours, and naturalistic floral engravings that reflect a penchant for ornate domestic display. Art Deco items lean into strict symmetry, geometric etching, frosted surfaces, and modernist silhouettes produced around the interwar period.

What indicates a mould-blown versus a wheel-cut piece?

Mould-blown vessels often show consistent repeating patterns, soft seam lines, and uniform wall thickness dictated by the original metal or wooden form. Wheel-cut items display crisp, sharp edges where abrasive wheels bit into the surface, with slight irregularities revealing the direct touch of the glass cutter.