How can you tell if a Christmas decoration is vintage or antique?
Since Christmas is a time of nostalgia, many companies make jewelry in vintage and antique styles. This can make it confusing for collectors who want genuine antique ornaments. However, there are some important clues that can help you determine whether an ornament is a reproduction or the real thing.
Vintage ornaments are of high quality
If you’ve ever picked up a modern ornament and held it next to an antique, you know that modern ornaments tend to feel different. Genuine antique ornaments are often made of mercury glass, glass that has been silvered on the inside. Modern reproductions are sometimes made of plastic or thicker, less sensitive glass.
Many antique ornaments are made by hand
While modern ornaments are uniform and perfect, ancient Christmas decorations were handmade and show some variation. You can see signs of hand painting, lack of uniformity and even an indication of mouth blown glass. Although many antique Christmas decorations were mouth blown in a mold, you will see the pontil mark or uneven area where the hanging cap attaches.
Glitter on antique ornaments is different
The glitter on modern Christmas decorations is different from the type of glitter used in years past. Vintage ornaments often have mica glitter that is not uniform in shape and size. The glitter may feel uneven to the touch.
Ornament Caps give a clue about age
Ornament hanger caps have changed over the years, and they can be a good indicator of age. Newer ornaments have ornate caps that are made of thin metal, while older metal caps tend to be plainer and thicker. You will also see caps made of plaster or even paper.