Dating vintage ball mason jars
Dating and Collecting Antique
As technology advanced, screw-top lids with zinc or porcelain liners became more prevalent. Last Updated: June 30, Fact Checked. This article was co-authored by Reyne Hirsch. Reyne Hirsch is an antiques expert, appraiser, writer, and the co-owner of the Dallas Auction Gallery based in Dallas, Texas. With over 25 years of experience, Reyne specializes in 20th century decorative arts, wristwatches, fine art and cars, luxury goods, and jewelry. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed , times. How to Decipher the
The company started making mason jars back in , and many people today still use these for canning, or collect the jars as a hobby. From Kerr and Ball mason jars to the valuable brand of Atlas jars — many vintage canning glasses are popular not just as kitchen decor items , but as true collectibles. A good rule of thumb is that the older the jar, the more valuable it is. Having said that, not every "vintage" jar you come across is the real deal, and fewer still are worth serious money. The good news is that, by paying attention to a few key details, you can quickly sort valuable originals from cheap reproductions. The first step is to look for signs of age, such as scratches or worn out bases. How to Date Old
From their classic design to the subtle changes in their logos over time, each jar has a story to tell. Mason jars. But have you ever picked up a vintage Mason jar and wondered about its history, its age, or the stories it could tell? Determining the date on a Mason jar can be a fascinating journey into the past, offering insights into manufacturing processes, company histories, and even broader trends in American culture. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the methods and clues needed to unlock the secrets held within these seemingly simple jars. Why bother dating a Mason jar? For collectors, the answer is straightforward: age and rarity directly impact value. An older, rarer jar can be worth significantly more than a common, modern one. 
How To Tell If
Understanding the evolution of their logos, manufacturing techniques, and even the subtle changes in glass color allows collectors and. From their classic design to the subtle changes in their logos over time, each jar has a story to tell. Collectors seek them out, decorators love them for their charm, and curious minds want to know what makes some jars more valuable than others. Ball Mason jars began their journey in when five Ball brothers started making glass home-canning jars in Buffalo, New York. Ball jars became a kitchen staple during the early to mids, as families preserved fruits, vegetables, and meats for winter months. Each jar represents a specific moment in our history. Mason jars were made in several colors, but some shades are more common than others. Aqua , a light blue-green hue, was widely used in jars made before and is often seen in early collections.