Verre de Soie: Iridescent "Silk Glass" by Steuben & Others

Verre de Soie, French for "glass of silk," is a type of translucent art glass with a soft, silky iridescent surface that shimmers with subtle rainbow hues when held to light. Developed by Frederick Carder at Steuben Glass Works in Corning, New York, around 1905, the technique produces a delicate, understated iridescence quite different from the bold metallic surfaces of Aurene or Tiffany Favrile glass. The glass body is typically clear or very faintly tinted, with the silky surface effect achieved through a light application of metallic chloride spray during production.

Identification & Marks

Steuben Verre de Soie pieces may bear an acid-etched fleur-de-lis mark with "STEUBEN" or be unmarked. Some pieces carry a scratched "Verre de Soie" mark or shape number on the base. The glass is identified primarily by its characteristic appearance: a nearly colorless body with a delicate, silky iridescent sheen that creates soft rainbow reflections. The iridescence is subtle compared to Aurene or Favrile and appears most prominently when viewed at an angle or held against light. Other manufacturers, including Fenton and various European factories, produced similar silk-finish glass, though Steuben examples are the most collected.

Types & Forms

• Vases: From small bud vases to large decorative pieces, often in graceful classical shapes
• Bowls & Compotes: Table pieces with ruffled, crimped, or flared rims
• Stemware: Wine glasses, cordials, and champagne coupes with Verre de Soie bowls on clear or colored stems
• Perfume Bottles: Elegant bottles with Verre de Soie bodies and colored glass stoppers (often in DeVilbiss atomizer mounts)
• Plates & Finger Bowls: Tableware pieces showing the silk finish beautifully
• Candlesticks: Elegant holders in various heights and forms
• Engraved Pieces: Some Verre de Soie pieces feature copper-wheel engraved decoration

Auction Price Ranges

Condition Factors

The iridescent surface is delicate and can be damaged by abrasion, harsh cleaning, or mineral deposits from water. Examine surfaces under raking light for scratches, which disrupt the silk effect. Interior staining in vases from standing water is a common problem; mild cases may be cleaned, but etched surfaces are permanent. Chips are serious defects, particularly on rims where they are most visible. The iridescence should be even and consistent across the surface. Pieces with worn or rubbed iridescence lose considerable appeal and value. Steuben examples in pristine condition with strong, even silk finish command the best prices.

Collecting Tips

Verre de Soie offers an affordable entry point to Steuben collecting, with many attractive pieces available at accessible prices. The glass pairs beautifully with both antique and contemporary interiors due to its subtle, elegant appearance. Perfume bottles with DeVilbiss mounts and colored stoppers are among the most decorative and sought-after forms. Compare Steuben Verre de Soie with similar production by Fenton (which produced a "Stretch Glass" with comparable iridescence) to ensure proper attribution. Signed or marked Steuben examples command premiums over unsigned pieces. The glass shows best in natural light, where the silk iridescence is most visible. Handle with care, as the iridescent surface cannot be restored once damaged.