Ruby Glass: Gold-Infused Red Glassware
Ruby glass is deep red-colored glass whose distinctive color comes from the addition of gold chloride (gold ruby) or, in later examples, selenium or copper oxide. First developed by Johann Kunckel in Potsdam around 1679, true gold ruby glass remains one of the most prized categories in antique glass collecting. The rich, luminous red has been produced by glassmakers across Europe and America for over three centuries.
History and Major Producers
- Bohemian glasshouses (17th-19th century) — the dominant source of antique ruby glass, often with elaborate engraving and cutting
- Kunckel/Brandenburg (c. 1679) — credited with perfecting the gold ruby formula
- Stourbridge makers (England) — Stevens & Williams, Thomas Webb & Sons
- New England Glass Company — American production from the mid-19th century
- Fenton Art Glass (20th century) — prolific American producer of ruby glass in modern era
- Anchor Hocking "Royal Ruby" (1938-1967) — mass-produced selenium-based ruby for everyday use
Identification and Types
Gold Ruby Glass (Pre-1900)
- Color is achieved with colloidal gold — produces the richest, most luminous red
- Holds color when held to light; appears to glow from within
- Typically heavier and thicker than later selenium-based examples
Bohemian Ruby-Stained Glass
- Clear glass with a thin layer of ruby stain applied to the surface
- Often engraved through the stain to reveal clear glass beneath (common souvenir ware)
- Lighter weight and less expensive than solid ruby glass
Selenium/Copper Ruby (20th Century)
- More affordable production method using selenium or copper compounds
- Color may appear slightly more orange or brownish compared to gold ruby
- Includes collectible lines from Fenton, Cambridge, and depression-era makers
Auction Price Ranges
| Category | Description | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bohemian engraved goblet | 19th-century, gold ruby, cut and engraved | $200 - $800 |
| Bohemian ruby-stained spa cup | Souvenir engraving, named location | $40 - $150 |
| Webb or Stevens & Williams vase | Cameo-cut or applied decoration | $500 - $3,000+ |
| Fenton ruby hobnail | Mid-20th century, various forms | $20 - $75 |
| Anchor Hocking Royal Ruby | Depression-era dinnerware pieces | $5 - $40 |
| New England Glass Company piece | Mid-19th century, gold ruby | $300 - $1,200 |
| Ruby glass epergne | Victorian, multi-trumpet | $400 - $1,500 |
| Ruby overlay/cut-to-clear | Bohemian, elaborate cutting | $150 - $600 |
Condition Factors
- Color consistency: Uneven coloring or pale spots reduce desirability
- Chips and cracks: Any damage significantly impacts value, especially on cut pieces
- Engraving quality: Sharply executed engraving on Bohemian pieces adds substantial value
- Original components: Decanters with original stoppers, cruets with correct lids
- Surface wear: Scratching from use is common on tableware and reduces value
Collecting Tips
- Learn to distinguish gold ruby from selenium ruby — hold the piece to strong light; gold ruby has a warmer, more luminous glow
- Bohemian ruby-stained souvenir pieces from named spas (Karlsbad, Marienbad) are affordable entry points for new collectors
- Victorian English ruby glass by Webb or Stevens & Williams represents the high end and is well-documented in reference books
- Anchor Hocking Royal Ruby has a dedicated collector base despite being mass-produced; rare forms like the punch bowl set command premiums
- Pairs and sets always bring disproportionately more than single pieces
- Reproductions of Bohemian ruby glass are common — look for signs of age in the metal mounts and wear patterns consistent with genuine antiques