Amethyst Glass: Purple-Toned Collectible Glassware
What Is Amethyst Glass?
Amethyst glass is glassware intentionally produced in shades of purple, from pale lavender to deep violet. The color is achieved by adding manganese dioxide or, less commonly, cobalt and nickel compounds to the glass batch. Amethyst glass has been produced since antiquity but reached peak popularity during the Victorian era (1850s-1900s) and again during the Depression glass period (1920s-1940s).
Collectors should distinguish intentionally colored amethyst glass from "sun-purpled" or "desert glass," which is clear glass containing manganese that has turned purple through prolonged ultraviolet light exposure. Both have collector followings, but they represent different markets.
Identifying Amethyst Glass
Types and Eras
- Victorian pattern glass (1850s-1910s) - Pressed glass tableware in amethyst; less common than clear or amber, making it more valuable
- Carnival glass (1908-1930s) - Iridescent-treated amethyst base glass; one of the most collected carnival glass colors
- Depression glass (1920s-1940s) - Machine-made amethyst tableware; patterns include "Royal Lace" and "Newport"
- Art glass (1880s-1920s) - Blown and decorated pieces by quality makers
- Elegant glass (1920s-1950s) - Higher-quality amethyst from Cambridge, Heisey, Fostoria, and others
- Sun-purpled glass - Originally clear glass with manganese content that turned purple from UV exposure
Notable Manufacturers
- Cambridge Glass - Produced amethyst in many elegant patterns
- Heisey - Rare in amethyst; commands strong premiums when found
- Fenton - Extensive amethyst carnival glass production
- Northwood - Premium carnival glass maker; amethyst pieces highly sought
- Imperial - Carnival and pressed glass in amethyst
Auction Prices and Market Values
| Type | Typical Range | Exceptional Pieces |
|---|---|---|
| Depression glass piece | $10-$40 | $150+ |
| Victorian pattern glass | $20-$80 | $300+ |
| Carnival glass bowl or plate | $25-$100 | $500+ |
| Carnival glass water pitcher | $100-$500 | $2,000+ |
| Cambridge elegant glass | $15-$60 | $200+ |
| Heisey in amethyst | $50-$300 | $1,000+ |
| Art glass vase or bowl | $75-$400 | $1,500+ |
| Sun-purpled bottles | $10-$50 | $200+ |
Amethyst carnival glass consistently performs well, especially Northwood marked pieces. Heisey pieces in amethyst are rare enough to command substantial premiums over the same form in other colors.
Condition Factors That Affect Value
- Iridescence quality on carnival glass is the primary value factor; strong, multicolored iridescence commands premiums
- Chips and cracks reduce value 40-70% on most pieces
- Color depth matters; rich, saturated purple outperforms pale lavender
- Pattern sharpness in pressed glass affects appeal
- Scratches from use modestly reduce value on tableware
- Sun-purpled glass value depends on the depth and evenness of the color change
Collecting Tips
Entry Points
Depression glass in amethyst/purple and common carnival glass pieces are available for $10-$40. Sun-purpled bottles and jars are also affordable at $10-$50.
Building a Collection
- Carnival glass is the deepest specialty within amethyst glass, with hundreds of patterns and forms
- By manufacturer - Cambridge or Fenton amethyst lines offer broad scope
- By form - Vases, candlesticks, or goblets across makers and eras
- Sun-purpled glass appeals to bottle collectors and those interested in the science of glass chemistry
Authentication Notes
- True amethyst glass holds its color in all lighting; sun-purpled glass may appear more brownish-purple
- Carnival glass reproductions exist, particularly from Fenton's later production; check for modern marks
- Some "amethyst" glass is actually deep blue; examine in natural light to confirm true purple tone
- Heisey amethyst is rare enough that any piece warrants careful authentication before paying premium prices