Fenton Ruby Red Amberina Hobnail Bud Vase (approx. 9.5-inch)
Fenton Art Glass · Art & Decor > Glassware > Vintage Collectible Glass
Era / Decade
1960s-1970s (The Ruby Red color with a slight Amberina orange-yellow glow in the hobnails was very popular during this period)
Material
Pressed glass; high-quality cadmium or selenium based dye (giving it the Ruby/Amberina appearance); thick, heavy glass characteristic of Fenton production.
Condition
Excellent; no visible chips, cracks, or clouding. The scalloped rim appears intact and the hobnails show no signs of blunt-force chipping.
Demand Level
Strong; Ruby red and Amberina glass have a dedicated collector base and perform particularly well during the Q4 holiday season (Valentine's/Christmas).
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00 (Low: $20 quick sale; Mid: $35 standard; High: $50+ if the Amberina glow is particularly intense under light)
Estimated Retail Value
$35.00 - $45.00 (Current cost of a similar artisan-produced hand-blown bud vase)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings for Fenton Ruby Hobnail Bud Vases range from $28 to $55 depending on size and specific rim variations. Shipping is usually charged extra (approx $10-$15).
Description
Stunning vintage Fenton Art Glass bud vase in a rich Ruby Red color. This piece features the iconic Hobnail pattern at the base and foot, transitioning into a sleek, vertically ribbed neck and finished with a delicate flared, crimped rim. The glass exhibits 'Amberina' characteristics where the raised hobnails catch the light with a fiery orange-yellow hue. Approximately 9-10 inches tall. Unmarked, which is common for Fenton pieces from this era which originally bore paper labels.
Key Features
Authentic Fenton craftsmanship, highly collectible Ruby Red colorway, iconic Hobnail texture, Mid-Century Modern appeal, excellent condition without 'sick glass' (cloudiness).
Authenticity Indicators
Distinctive Fenton crimped rim, uniform hobnail pattern, and specifically the footed base style match Fenton mold #3886. Confidence: High. Fenton often used stickers instead of embossed logos until the 1970s.
Flaws to Note
No major flaws; check the bottom for shelf wear (light scratching) which is normal for age. No significant chips or flea bites noted from the photo.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for glass collectors), or a high-end Antique Mall booth.
Selling Tips
Use 'Amberina' and 'Mid-Century Modern' in keywords. Backlight the item in photos to show the translucency of the red and the glow of the hobs. Mention 'UV reactive' if it glows under a blacklight (some cadmium glass does). Ship with double-boxing to ensure safety.