College Memories

Antique Glass Knobs Are a Craze

Back in the day – way back, that is – glass knobs featuring mirrored centers and diamond like design, were the defacto standard in new home builds. Although not found on new homes any longer, these items are mined like gold at flea markets and salvage yards.

Unlike the cheaply made models you find now at your local big box retailer, these beauties were built to last – mounted on solid brass or steel shanks. The thin, brittle metal used now tend to wear out quickly, and requires frequent replacement.

Antique glass knobs are loved today for their elegant design and quality craftsmanship. Most of these models also work with contemporary lock sets, making them a status symbol among owners of new and old homes alike.

Glass door hardware was originally introduced in 1826. The technology involved – basically pressing molten glass into cast iron molds, was revolutionary at the time and created a whole new class of craftsmen. In 1917 the use of glass in door hardware exploded – metal was scarce because of the war.

By 1920, most of the largest door hardware manufactures were producing machine-cut and molded knobs – including cut crystal in a variety of styles, sizes, and prices. But glass was not limited strictly to the door handles – glass dresser knobs were also extremely popular.

In the 1920s, most door hardware featured six, eight, or 12 facets – and were entirely clear. They sported a flat face that highlighted bullet, star and pinwheel designs set into their base. Less common were pink glass knobs and blue glass knobs. Their shapes varied widely – from crystal globes to ovals with inset star designs – both of which were popular Art Deco styles and still work well today with modern decors.

This type of door hardware was popular through the 40′s, but the 50′s brought back metals back into the popular scene. Americans began favoring clean, elegant lines rather than intricate craftsmanship, and new homes began trending toward plain steel orbs on their front doors.

Today, salvaged door hardware is relatively easy to find. Still, there are important considerations concerning style, construction, and fit to look at before buying.

Prices for antique and vintage glass knobs vary widely and depend on rarity, condition, color, and style.  Most valuable are the cobalt, red, and Vaseline-glass models – these generally came from mansions.

Today’s “big box” home improvement stores carry a wide variety of modern glass models as well. And while considerably less expensive, the materials and construction in these modern knobs are generally considered inferior to their vintage counterparts.

Whether you are looking to replace a single set or the entire home’s door hardware, you’ll find your best selection online. This also makes sizing easier instead of dragging your glass knobs down to the local antique stores, you can just measure the spindles and compare sizing posted online.

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Antiques: Collecting Antique Glassware : Collecting Antique Glass & Glassware

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