😂😂 I'm already doing it I saw a creamer in picture last night for $3 that are an antique rose pattern. It's silver on glass but the platinum on the tops was marred so I did not buy them. But yeah yeah I'm already doing that
1) looking good Rajiv. Excellent hair day beautiful tunic shirt 2) I am now so excited when you post a new video 3) I have already started using antique dishes and a sugar bowl and a tea set and I love them and they make me happy and it makes me happy to eat my meals off these beautiful dishes and plates 4) Thank you as that's all because of you 5) Your intelligence and experience at your young age is remarkable and I'm 63 and every time I watch you, I learn something and I want to learn more 6) You are better than Martha Stewart ever was or could be. And yes I'm serious. 7)You - and what you do makes me joyful and it makes other people joyful. And I thank you deeply for that. " how Rajiv change my life".... I swear I'm going to write that book. I'm taking pictures as I go through the house and redo things.❤❤❤
I collect vintage hand-embroidered cotton pillow cases. In my area almost every estate sale from an older person has unused or barely used vintage pillow cases in the back of the linen closet, saved apparently for when the Queen visits. She ain’t visitin’, honey! So when I find them, I wash them to get rid of discoloration (see Rajiv’s video on washing whites!), iron them, and USE THEM. It’s the only kind I use. 💕🛏️. And when they get too ratty to keep using, I thank the person who spent hours embroidering them, and they get repurposed to something else. Thanks for another great video!
Those elderly people were most likely children of the Great Depression and saved their nice things because that was all they were ever going to have. It is difficult for today's younger generation to understand that mentality. Your comment shows how little you understand.
@@anydaynow7755 Actually, I do understand. People like my mom would save things for decades but never allow themselves permission to enjoy them. And, you can’t tell me it’s all they’d ever have. In estate sales the homes are quite often packed to the brims with decades of possessions. I make a bee-line for the linen closets because I know that, odds are, there’s something precious there that they’ve long-since forgot about. Pristinely ironed.. Un-enjoyed. Yellowing from age. Dusty from neglect. And I take them home, wash and whiten them, hang them out on the clothesline for some fresh air, and,after they’re freshly ironed, give them pride of place on my bed. And I honor the people who spent hours and hours embroidering them by hand. I actually appreciate and enjoy the items. That’s the point of Rajiv’s video, I think. Enjoy what you have!
I buy older glass pieces from thrift stores and save them, using them as vases to give flowers for friends that need encouraging or who are sick. They are so beautifully unique, and often way cheaper than modern, store-bought vases!!! So fun! Thank for your great informational video!!!
glass collector here, just a note, purple is not a desirable attribute and most serious collectors consider it as damage. in very old glassware a slight purpling can be accepted, but it’s not the piece’s original state, it’s caused by exposure to sunlight causing the manganese in the glass to have a chemical change. if one finds a darker purple color it’s often been artificially purpled by unscrupulous sellers trying to sell it as a new color. Also, this glass is fragile, not meant for hot liquids, not dishwasher safe.
The stemware is beautiful! I am inspired to look locally for items like this. I truly appreciate you teaching about antiques and an appreciation for craftsmanship.
You know, I wish that people were still crafting things like they used to instead of just mass producing them cheaply. And these crafted items are extraordinary and they are beautiful and I agree with him. They feel different in your hand and they look different. And I'm very thrilled for all the education provided in this video, along with a look at the beautiful glassware and the flip glass, which i have never seen before.
Youve got me interested Rajiv. I've recently transitioned to glass jam jars to store fresh berry fruit in in the fridge. They don't last a week in the plastic punnets we buy them in, but in lidded glass jars they can last for 2 to 3 weeks. Raspberries are my favourite berry fruits but they are very soft and tender so only last in the plastic punnets for 1 to 2 days. Also, I've discovered the flavour in the fruit becomes enhanced while they stay fresh in glass.
there is jam in plastic? I don't know anyone who buys jam instead of making it, but the jam section in any grocery store I've ever seen is a couple of flavours in glass.
So glad you mentioned lead content in old glassware. It is so dangerous to use them for food or drink and folks should definitely test for content if they are considering using them at all. You can certainly choose to use them at your own risk but please don't be cavalier about the dangers. Also please don't serve anything to guests with these glasses unless they have been informed of the content of lead and the dangers. I do love your videos so much because your enthusiasm and appreciation for old handcrafted items is obvious. Equal parts enthusiasm and education is the best balance.
A very good reminder. For years I collected pretty old dishes. As I am moving toward some simplicity in my life I decided it was time to start using them rather than just enjoying displaying them. I bought a lead test kit and unfortunately most of them had lead in the decorative parts so I decided to take pictures and get rid of them. I actually felt guilty donating them for fear of other people being exposed to some lead but as a recovering overthinker I had to just let them go and let the universe sort it out.
I learned that I had an antique cut glass decanter I had been storing spirits in for a few months that turned out to have lead in it. I then learned that Lead leeches from decanters very, very quickly, especially into spirits and wine. We're talking within minutes or hours. Needless to say, that decanter is no longer in use! I encourage everyone to do their own research before stopping at "Rajiv uses them so it's probably fine". There is lots of beautiful glassware that looks old (and might actually be fairly old) but doesn't contain lead risk, so unless you are super dedicated to this like Rajiv is, that might be a better option :)
I have been collecting pressed glass for almost 60 years. I appreciated your explanation of how the various glasses were produced. which shows you can always learn something. Thanks you.
In my area cut glass often turns up in the thrift stores very reasonable and I think it’s because it’s not something recommended for the dishwasher. Museum gift shops like the Met often sell some very convincing copies and adaptations, but the tint or color gives it away. I look for wear on the base of the glass too. Nice work, Rajiv. You have a wonderful collection.
If you’re in New York State definitely check out Corning, NY. There is an entire glass museum with glass artwork and history, live glass blowing demonstrations, and work shops to blow glass and do other projects.
Currently collecting Rosaline (pink) glassware from France for my daughter’s trousseau. We hail from Strasbourg, France and I have added many traditional French home goods to the chest. I had a steamer trunk made by an Amish woodworker and gave it to her for her birthday.
Unfortunately it's not the same as it was when I worked there, poor management has run it into the ground. I don't want to go back and ruin the fond memories I have of that place that was once a magical haven.
Dude. I've been watching and LOVING your channel for a while now and last night I watched Mean Girls and I was like hey that really looks like a Rajiv. I just looked it up and I cannot believe that's you! Makes me love you even more! ❤
Rajiv, I love your videos. You are so knowledgeable and really, just a light in the world. Your orchids are gorgeous. Will you ever show us your artwork? I think, seeing your other handwork, that you’re very accomplished.
I only wish you were somewhere in the Australian locale, Ranjiv: in the process of being obliged to disperse my granny's glass and chinaware, I'd love to know it was going to an appreciative and adoring home.
Very interesting. I always wondered why red glassware was so expensive. Now I know. I was raised in an old farmhouse that had wavy glass windows with bubbles in them. They were beautiful but drafty. I would love a tour of your personal art collection. Looks interesting.
Hi, Rajiv, my father was a glass collector from the 1960s through 2005. As a result, I know a lot about art glass and glass in general. Stop by my apartment sometime.
A Masterclass in glassware. Fascinating! Thank you for sharing your extensive knowledge with us. I will definitely look at glassware differently, from now on.
I have found precious crystal vases or glassware for a dollar or two at the local thrift shops. You don’t need to set matching pieces on the table. Many old glass pieces are tinted purple due to being changed by sunlight over the centuries.
It's taken me over 30 years to realise the magic sitting on the Bric-A-Brac shelf in the charity shop, Thanks for opening my mind! (Time to phase out the current Wetherspoons glass collection)
You should go to Wheaton glass arts in Millville, NJ. They have a glass museum and a studio where they still blow glass. One of my favorite places to visit and filled with beautiful things.
I have the same 'cake stand' that you show early in the video. My goal was to find at least three of different sizes...and (over time) I did! As a former dealer in antiques, sad to say that the market and interest in beautiful pressed or cut tumblers and stemware has largely evaporated. I hope that your presentations help change things for the better. Meanwhile, the availability of all things antique, at great savings, is fantastic. I no longer hunt or buy...but in many locations the amount of wares that go begging is astounding.
I absolutely love beautiful old glassware. However, I live in the Deep South U.S. and the ephemeral nature of glassware makes the much older things very hard to find due to hurricanes, etc. Most of the oldest things we find here are pressed, etched, and late 19th-early 20th century (at least in my experience), and while those are beautiful, unless you hit the high end antique shops in New Orleans, it's you won't find the selection available in New England, for example. Still, you never know what you might find in some obscure place, and one can hope!
Glass is such a fascinating substance! I do glass “lampwork” making small beads in my garage. I briefly experimented with making marbles but my “punty marks” were huge lumps (not good for marbles haha). I definitely need more practice. The glass I use is soda-lime (I believe) and it comes from Murano. It’s interesting that different elements make the colours and that explains the price differences (like gold being used to make red glass). Rajiv, you need to try lampwork, I know you would love it!!!
Just the most elegant being on the Tube ✨ Thank you (from NYC) for a great start to the day! Would you ever do a meet and greet/craft event? ✋🏾i volunteer to help, it would be my pleasure! ❤
90% of my cocktail and wine glasses are antique. I rescue orphan glassware as often as I can (if it doesn’t have matched partners, it’s an orphan and needs a home so I provide it love and affection)
Amazing video Rajiv. If you haven’t already, I Highly recommend watching the videos from Corning Museum of Glass, where Bill Gunderath demonstrates step by step how Venetian glassware is made. I am obsessed! I think you would be too… you should go to Corning and see him in person!
I just love Rajiv's style. His fashion sense, his eloquence, his taste in art, furniture and home decore and of course the life lessons and wisdom he imparts. 🥰 Rajiv if you see this, thank you 🥰
I think lead in glass or crystal is only a problem if you store alcohol in them. Like crystal decanters, pretty sure it was discovered lead slowly will penetrate into the alcohol over time. Crystal usually contains somewhere around 24% lead and pre 90’s possibly more. The more lead the stronger the glass/crystal, sparkle, etc. But lead shouldn’t be a problem, as far as we know and have tested, other than that. So maybe do some research if you have a bar of crystal decanters.
Y’know, they say to put our money into experiences rather than objects, but I rather disagree. It’s not about what you purchase, it’s about HOW you consume/enjoy it. Like Rajiv, I dearly enjoy objects, especially if they have special history or craftsmanship. Every object can be an experience, if you value and treasure it. They crystallize human ingenuity and care, they’re a physical legacy to our intangible pursuit of betterment.
I live in Stourbridge, England where you can still see glassblowers and glass cutters at work. L C Tiffany used glassblowing techniques from here and established the Stourbridge Glass Co. in New York. We still have a 200 year old glass cone where ovens were lit to fire the glass before the introduction of modern Lehr ovens. Local charity shops are full of beautiful cut glass. When you flick the rim , a 24%lead glass will ring like a bell; and when you run your finger over the grooves they are much deeper and sharper with cut rather than softer feeling, moulded glass. A single hand blown, cut drinking glass was made by at least 5 very skilled people. Though out of fashion because they aren’t dishwasher proof, I buy them very cheaply and use them to enjoy my gin and tonic or Brandy Alexanders in style!
I had a crystal glass in my cart and forgot it the other day in thrift in Va. I drove all the way back next day and found it. Too unique to pass up. I had broken my favorite one so I'm glad I found it. Paid $5, it is worth $60.
I really enjoyed seeing your glass collection. Just a suggestion if you do another glass presentation - you could wear a dark colored shirt and the glass would be easier to see up close. I look forward to your next video. I always learn something new!
Good morning Rajiv , I enjoy your vlogs so much. Everything you present to us is so educational. I get so mesmerized just listening to you. I enjoy different antique glasses as well.
Oooooo could you do an episode about what the different glasses are for??? I've been grinding in to craft cocktails and that Flip Glass is fascinating!!!!
Could you make a video on how you started collecting as a teenager? You've mentioned quite a few times that this hobby started when you were still living with your parents. How did that go? Like a guide for young people who want to start but have no money and no space but have a dream.
You have a beautiful collection of glassware. Thank you so much for all the information regarding blowing and molds. Next time I'm at the thrift store I will look at glassware with a more educated knowledge.
I have enjoyed watching your videos. I appreciate the beautiful things in life, however, I live with a family that prefers paper plates. I would eat off china, christal glassware every day. I always wash them by hand and dry them to eliminate any water spots. I even polish my stainless steel silverware with silver polish. It is always a pleasure to join you to take me to that place where I choose to live mentally while dealing with life and family.
When I was growing up my two sisters were 'grossed out' by the fresh eggs from my chicken coop. My mom got store-bought eggs for the girls. They also were grossed out by the two-hundred year old silver fork that I loved and used when I ate. I lived in the same house with them but I lived in a world in my head...the world that I found special and beautiful. I love that you're doing the same. That's how you take charge of your life.
I think it's so funny when people prefer store-bought eggs to backyard coop eggs. Well done, you, for keeping your own hens! I know you're in the city now but it would be really interesting to hear you walk folks through chicken-keeping basics, if you have a nearby friend who keeps chickens. I would love for more of my neighbors to have coops!@@rajivsurendra
Thank You for sharing your collection and your knowledge about what to look for and how to identify glassware. I have a few old pieces that were my grandmother's. I guess I should get them out and find a way to use them!
So interesting and remember hearing some of this when we’ve been to Corning Glass here in New York . My grandkids were able to blow a glass piece to bring home. Great explanation!
Thank-you Rajiv! My passion is old, clear glass. Flint glass is magic. Thank-you for encouraging people to go find it. It is sitting on thrift store shelves and all too frequently that history is getting binned once a month or so. Your passion shows and it is the same kind of excitement I feel too when I find a really old piece, sometimes with some dings, but that's OK too! One small clarification - a spooner is not as tall as a celery, they are very different and distinct pieces in the table settings. Spills are also great fun to come across in the wild. Thank-you again.
I love your show!!! Super interesting, funny , useful content that isn’t found elsewhere and you are so gorgeous ! I mean you remind me of a hot Mr Roger’s!! Mr. Rajiv’s neighborhood!! I loved the episode on how to take a walk in NYC!!! You are Gold!! Thank you so much !!❤
I adore glass. 78 years ago I was taken to a country fair . There were lots of tents. I recall clearly watching a glass blower . He blew a pink balloon and occasionally swung it fromthe end of his blowing rod. As he blew it larger it suddenly burst shattering in many pieces and made a huge noise. I was just 3 and got a huge fright. I rushed outside terrified but didn’t cry. My father came out and tried to persuade me to go back in. Of course I wouldn’t go but years later I so wished I could watch again. I went to lots of those types of fairs but never saw a glass blower again.
Once again I'm sitting with a cup of tea and a notebook. Taking notes for the next time I go into a thrift store. Most staff are not knowledgeable about antiques. My last visit to a thrift store, I found a tiny tarnished cup for $3. When I got it home and cleaned it up I discovered it was an inlaid gold cup. I have no idea how old it is or how much gold is in it. I don't care about the value, I like the design. It's a keeper.
This was a great education, thanks. I'm a fan of antique and vintage glass myself. I collect fairy lamps. I especially like fairy lamps made by Fenton, but I also collect L. E. Smith moon and stars pattern glass. I've got some Westmoreland Wakefield pattern fairy lamps. For daily use, I have Westmoreland glass paneled grape milk glass canisters and soap dishes in each bathroom. Every night, I use a fairy lamp as a night light. I burn a votive candle inside of a glass votive holder, inside of the fairy lamp. The candle will burn for upto 15 hours that way because the wax can't just drip away when it gets melted by the flame, like it would if I were to burn a taper candle. Right now, I'm using a light pink hobnail pedestal Fenton fairy lamp, with some fancy frills around the top edge of the pedestal. I love antique glass because it's beautiful, and because glass is ageless. It's as vibrant and as good as new even if it's very old.
I have very recently gotten into collecting nice, glass pieces while thrifting. It makes me happy to see and use something old and beautiful for regular use. Recently, I found a Waterford crystal champagne toasting flute for $2.99! It is so enjoyable to drink even just regular wine out of. Pieces like that can make such a difference when enjoying the little things in life. Cheers🥂
Rajiv! I biked past you on the williamsburg bridge this morning, it seemed like you were deep in thought gazing up and over Brooklyn. Sorry if I interrupted with the "HHEEYYY!!"
Thanks for sharing, really helpful as I love glass, metal, ceramics and wood. The older the better! Slowly replacing every plastic item I own makes me very happy. It brings me joy when I use my things and saying bye bye to the plastic ugly things haha. My hunt is currently for an antique feather duster :)
Fascinating master class on antique glass. The thoroughness with which you have explained about the different techniques used to create exquisite glass ware deserves all my praise. And also, how to tell an original piece from a fake. Thank you for walking us through your prized collection of glass ware. Fascinating to know that it is the impurities in the sand which give glass the distinct tinges and hues. Thank you Rajiv. A pleasure to listen to you. There is a fabulous book on Glass by William S.Ellis. If you can, do please read this well researched book.
My every day glassware are tumblers, 3 sizes. Mine purchased new. Love how durable. Have a thing for blown art glass but for the freeform shapes. I have stone containers for Q-tips & rounds adding a beautiful grounding vibe.
Yes, I too, love glassware. You have a fine and interesting collection. Concerning lead, no one will die from drinking out of lead glassware unless they are excessive people who over do everything. All things, in moderation is the wisdom to use concerning all things. Thank you for sharing your collection......loved the spooner....seems you can use it for anything.
@@rajivsurendra I've been drinking from leaded crystal all of my adult life. I'm 71 and still have my wits about me. I would not use leaded glass to store food, beverages or perfume for long periods, however. If someone goes nuts about what might leach out of glass, I just change the subject to the chemical composition of their plastic containers and all the foam in their mattress. At least my glasses are pretty!
My father made neon signs. He blew the tubs to bend it to form the letters or design. He would make us vases and things. I have always been fascinated with glass!
thank you for this Rajiv! i have been collecting antique bottles since lockdown, but i never really understood how the bottle was made. i will be a better collector now!
Hi my twin... My glassware collection is complete and... Im honestly done I've carefully went to lots of awesome antique stores and requested it be tracked down especially for me.. I use it daily but with plastic spoons when I enjoy rum raisin ice cream and praline candy another New Orleans favorite treat when I entertain my ( few friends ) love the beautiful video
I love that pickle jar. That's beautiful. Looks lime I need to visit the thrift store couple of times a week. Another amazing video from our exquisite Rajiv❤. Thank you.
Thank you for another beautiful and informative video 🫶 I swear my heart stopped for a split second when your elbow bumped the glass cake stand! Thank goodness it was safe 🤭
I love glass items. I have been trying to figure out why. I think it is because it is sparkly. Thanks for the education about it all. I appreciate it. Very interesting.
I enjoy your blogs very much. I learn how to appreciate not only what I have but the amazing choices to find special items to add that I will actually use. Thank you
Thank you Rajiv for another interesting vlog. I have been collecting antique American brilliant period Cut glass, and American and European art glass for years and use it daily. My favorite two cut glass patterns are strawberry diamond and fan and the Russian pattern. So named, because in the early 1880s the imperial Russian embassy in Washington DC ordered a service in this pattern from the American cut glass firm Hawkes.
