Pink Depression Glass - How was it made?

First of all, why is it called “depression” glass?

Pink depression glass originated in the United States during the Great Depression in the 1930s. This pink color was popular during this time period because it was seen as cheerful and uplifting during a time of economic hardship. The Great Depression lasted for about ten years… longer than what we experienced during the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Imagine sitting at the dinner table in the 1930’s. Your family struggled to afford basic necessities, and had to make do with limited resources… Because of the impact on food during this time, you likely would have been served warm potatoes with beans, and if you were lucky, some canned pork along with a single biscuit.

Though the meal may seem rather plain, you are grateful for what you have. And here it is, served on a beautiful glass plate of glimmering pink hues. If you’d ask me, I’d say presentation makes all the difference. They were definitely on to something… don’t you think?

How it’s made…

Pink depression glass is made using a specific type of glass known as soda-lime glass. This type of glass is a combination of soda ash, lime, and silica sand. The process involves melting these raw materials together in a furnace at extremely high temperatures.

Once the glass mixture has melted, it is shaped and formed into a mold or design using various techniques such as blowing, or in this case, pressing. After shaping the glass, it is cooled down slowly to prevent stress and add durability.

The pink color is achieved by adding a small amount of gold to the glass mixture during the melting process. Additional decoration such as etching, cutting, or embossing would also be added to the glass to enhance its appearance, though at times, this step was skipped during the Great Depression.

“Presentation makes all the difference.”

I have respect for these precious dishes. Not only did they serve a purpose, they brought a spark of hope and a warmth to all who enjoyed a meal on them. Today, I am a collector of both vintage and newer, modern pink glass dishes. I feel these really brighten up a table setting and add personality to the occasion.

I’m happy to share these lovely pieces with all of you, here at Honeybee’s Teahouse! If you’d like to enjoy a time with our pink glass collection, be our guest! Schedule a free consultation, and you will be given access to our exclusive inventory catalogue. Thank you so much for reading. 🎀

-Brianna, CEO/Founder of Honeybee’s Teahouse