Depression Glass: A Collector's Guide

by Doris Yeske

This is the perfect starter book for any would-be collector - a gentle and humorous introduction to the hobby starting with the origins of the glass, leading them through garage sales and auctions, and on to a more extensive knowledge of specific colors, patterns, pieces, and prominent companies.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0764307800
• ISBN13: 9780764307805
• Release Date: January 1999
• Publisher: Schiffer Publishing
• Length: 159 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

A starting point for identification and history

I bought "Depression Glass: A Collector's Guide" long after I had acquired several pieces. Then I wanted to know their names and types. This book adequately identifies pieces and provides not only their history, but also a history of Depression Glass in general. Another reviewer said the prices are accurate (2005), but the most accurate prices come from the internet. What this book does is give a starting point and to provide pattern labels. I identified a gorgeous piece from the book that was not identical, but went to the internet, found the pattern, and finally the piece and its worth. There's nothing simpler--just a little detective work is required. The author explains the popularity of Depression Glass--color and mementos, how to become a collector and where to find pieces, and what to avoid. Depression glass is so-called because it was made during the Depression in bright, bold colors to create bright, cheerful table settings against the bleakness of the economy. Popular colors include light green, pink, ruby, iridescent, amber, white, dark green, cobalt, light blue, topaz, yellow, amethyst, and crystal. My favorite chapter is about patterns and the displays of so many patterns and types of dishes. This is where you go to find the piece you just bought or are considering for purchase. An interesting piece the author concentrates on is the berry bowl and shows its patterns and colors. Others popular to collect are creamer and sugar bowls in their array of colors and variety of designs. Finally, the book concludes with Tips for Collectors, How to be Your Own Detective, and a Glassware vocabulary. Although it can get expensive, this is a fun hobby. Needless to say, I don't buy expensive-- I buy for the fun of collecting. The excitement of finding an affordable piece is priceless!

This Is NOT A Price Guide!!

i bought this book because I was interested in learning more about the various patterns of depression glass that I own and I'm intersted in owning. Ms. Yeske does a great job explaining how her passion for glass began and the things she loves to collect (such as candlesticks and sherbets) and the various ways she uses her pieces and how she displays them. I have to say that I did not buy this book with the assumption that it was an accurate price guide. It is not. Many of the prices quoted appear to be what Ms. Yeske paid for the pieces herself. And the photos are not as clear and vibrant as those contained in price guides. But if you go into this book knowing that, it is an enjoyable read for any glass collector who knows what it's like to inherit a piece and feel the passion grow.

Excellent General References for Depression Glass Collectors

I am a collector and fan of Depression glass. Doris Yeske's books are excellent references for the beginning collector who is attempting to gain a general knowledge of Depression glass. The chapters range from introductions to the Great Depression through how to find depression glass through specialty topics, such as decorating for the holidays, miscellaneous serving pieces, and more. The pictures support the chapters and do give accurate representations of the patterns and current prices. Her books are not intended to be alphabetized price references - there are plenty of these good books already on the market. Her books provide a refreshing change of pace and a very educational overview of the entire topic. I own every edition of each book, and have never been disappointed in the content or the pictures. Her books, being softcover, are also very affordable as opposed to some of the hard back price guides. I highly recommend these books as great general references.

Very Nice, Beautiful pictures

The book is very nicely done, the pictures are fantastic and clear, prices and info are good. The book, over all is very helpful. The only fault, which is very minor, is it really could use an index! It would make using the book so much easier. But still well worth the money and still very helpful!