Murano

Murano glass includes all consumer and art glass from the island of Murano near Venice. There are several manufacturers and designers on the island. At the end of the thirteenth century, glass production was moved from Venice to the island to reduce the risk of fire in the city, which was mainly home to wooden houses. For centuries Murano has played an important role in the international glass world. Interest in colorful Murano glass declined in the eighteenth century. In the fifties and sixties of the twentieth century, however, attention was drawn to it again. It became a very popular product among tourists in Venice. Unfortunately, this also had a negative impact: Murano glass is widely counterfeited and glassware in the typical Murano style is imported from China.

To identify original Murano glass, you need to look for hallmarks or signatures. Since 1994, a seal of approval with the Vetro Artistico Murano logo and manufacturer's number has been used. Since 2016, the quality mark also includes a serial number and QR code. Sometimes a certificate of authenticity is also available, although this will not often be the case with antique glass.