Glass Christmas Ornaments

Glass Christmas ornaments are a time-honored tradition that began deep in the heart of Germany in medieval times. Traders from Venice brought the skill the dedicated German craftsmen, who began producing unique collectibles as far back as the Renaissance. When the technique of blowing glass was developed, also during the Renaissance, an entirely new tradition was born that would become beloved all over the world.

The entire industry was endangered when the ingenious engineers of the 1930s discovered they could make resin-coated ornaments that were inexpensive and attractive. For a time, it seemed as though the unparalleled craftsmanship of glass Christmas ornaments would be lost forever. However, after World War II, many of the ornament artisans moved to West Germany and courageously continued to produce their miniature works of art.

Glass Christmas Ornaments Today

Today the world has come to appreciate once more the quality and beauty of glass Christmas decorations. Christopher Radko products are very popular modern interpretations of the old-fashioned traditional glass ornament. As vintage products continue to gain in popularity, many new collectors are discovering the joys of antique glass tree trimmings.

Today, the offerings available to collectors range from the traditional German pickle to depictions of characters from the Wizard of Oz. Most ornaments of hand-blown glass are still designed and created in eastern Europe, Germany chief among those countries exporting decorations to the United States. With the recent resurgence in popularity, this type of ornament will be available to collectors for many years to come.