Glassware & Crystal: a world of light and craftsmanship

The Story of Glass

Glass is magic in solid form. Made from sand, heat, and the breath of a glassblower — or the precision of a grinder — it is one of the most versatile materials humankind has ever mastered. For over 3,500 years, artisans have shaped glass into utilitarian objects, works of art, and symbols of opulence. Each piece catches the light in its own way, telling a story of the place where it was made.

Venice: The Birthplace of Glassblowing

On the island of Murano, near Venice, the foundation for what we now know as the European glass tradition was laid in the 13th century. The Murano glassblowers guarded their secrets so carefully that for centuries they held a monopoly on Europe's most beautiful colored glass, mirrors, and chandeliers. The distinctive millefiori glass — a thousand flowers in one piece — is still an icon of Italian craftsmanship.

Bohemia & Czech Republic: The Crystal of Europe

Bohemia, now the Czech Republic, grew into the crystal center of the world. Bohemian crystal is known for its exceptional clarity, heavy quality, and beautiful cut motifs. Brands like Moser and Riedel are world-renowned, but the countless smaller glass factories in the region also produced glassware of unprecedented beauty for decades. A cut Bohemian crystal vase or wine glass is a piece to cherish.

Ireland: Waterford Crystal

In 1783, a glass factory was founded in the Irish city of Waterford that would grow into one of the most renowned crystal brands in the world. Waterford Crystal is synonymous with heavy, clear quality and intricate cut patterns. A piece of Waterford on the table is more than glassware — it is an heirloom.

Scandinavia: Design and Function in Balance

In Sweden, Finland, and Norway, glass art developed along modernist lines. Studios like Orrefors and Kosta Boda in Sweden, and Iittala in Finland, combined craftsmanship with sleek design. Scandinavian glassware is recognizable by its clear lines, subtle colors, and timeless elegance — perfect for those who appreciate functional beauty.

America: Art Glass and Studio Glass

In the 20th century, the studio glass movement flourished in America, with artists discovering glass as an expressive medium. Names like Dale Chihuly elevated glass art to a full-fledged art form. But classic American glass factories — such as Fenton and Carnival Glass producers — also supplied colorful, affordable glassware that is now beloved by collectors worldwide.

The Rest of the World

From colorful Moroccan tea glass to elegant Persian glassware, from Japanese kiriko crystal with its geometric cut patterns to hand-blown glass from Mexico — glass art knows no bounds. Every culture has its own relationship with this special material.

Vintage Glassware at 2nd Hand Bargain

At 2nd Hand Bargain, you'll find carefully selected vintage glassware and crystal from various countries and periods. From a graceful Bohemian crystal vase to a colorful Murano glass — each piece has its own character and history. Bring the light of the past into your home today.