History and Collectibility of Vintage Cherry Blossom Depression Glassware

The History of Cherry Blossom Depression Glass

Cherry Blossom is a popular pattern of depression glass produced by the Hocking Glass Company in the 1930s. Like many brands of pink depression glass, Cherry Blossom glassware glows brightly under ultraviolet black light due to the selenium used in its manufacturing.

The Hocking Glass Company

The Hocking Glass Company was founded in Lancaster, Ohio in 1905. Originally a bottle manufacturer, Hocking expanded into tableware glass after merging with the Anchor Cap and Closure Corporation in 1937. Their first patterns of depression glassware, which they named "American", were hugely successful.

Building on this success, Hocking released the elegant yet affordable Cherry Blossom pattern in 1930. It proved extremely popular throughout the Great Depression era when cheap, durable glassware was in high demand.

Characteristics of Cherry Blossom Glass

Cherry Blossom depression glass has a distinctive pink color ranging from pale pink to deep rosy pink. The most common pieces feature an embossed floral cherry blossom branch design.

As a Depression-era glass, Cherry Blossom pieces have a practical, heavy-duty feel and utilitarian shapes like plates, bowls, cups, and pitchers. However, the elegant cherry blossom decoration gives them an upscale, feminine look.

Collectibility of Cherry Blossom Glassware

Cherry Blossom remains one of the most collectible types of vintage depression glassware today. There are enthusiast collectors who seek out full tableware sets in the pattern while others collect individual pieces like candle holders or candy dishes.

Rarity of Certain Pieces

Some pieces in the Cherry Blossom pattern are harder to find than others, making them highly desirable to collectors. These include the luncheon/sandwich plate, the tall fan vase, the hen-on-nest dish, and the cold cut plates.

Prices of Cherry Blossom Glass

There is high demand for Cherry Blossom glassware among collectors, which keeps prices relatively high compared to other depression glass patterns. Small single items like bonbon dishes may sell for $15-25 but rarer serving platters can fetch several hundred dollars.

Reproduction Cherry Blossom Glass

Because vintage Cherry Blossom pieces can be so valuable, a market arose for reproduction Cherry Blossom items in the 1950-60s. These copies tend to be lighter weight and have subtle mold difference from the original 1930s pieces. Identifying genuine depression era glass requires close inspection by a knowledgeable collector.

The Future of Collecting Cherry Blossom Glass

For dedicated enthusiasts, the thrill of finding an authentic Cherry Blossom piece at an antique mall or estate sale is part of the fun of building a collection. As existing pieces become harder to find, prices are likely to creep up even more making this glassware even more treasured.

The vibrant glow and beautiful floral pattern of Cherry Blossom will continue to capture the imagination of pink depression glass collectors for years to come. For everything from casual collectors to serious glassware investors, it remains a go-to pattern for building an impressive collection of glass.

FAQs

What years was Cherry Blossom depression glass made?

The Cherry Blossom pattern by Hocking Glass Company dates from 1930 through the late 1930s during the Great Depression era. Some sources report production ending in 1938.

How can you tell if Cherry Blossom glass is original or a later reproduction?

Genuine 1930s Cherry Blossom glass tends to be heavier and thicker than later copies. Experts also look for tiny mold differences and inferior quality of detail in identifying newer reproduction pieces.

What are some of the rarest Cherry Blossom pieces?

Among serious Cherry Blossom collectors, some of the most sought-after items include luncheon plates, tall fan flower vases, hen-on-nest dishes, and cold cut plates with dividers.

Why does Cherry Blossom glass glow brightly under UV light?

The unique glowing property of Cherry Blossom and other pink depression glass is due to the presence of selenium used in the glass manufacturing process during that era.