Since the 12th century, Murano glass has been unmatched in complexity and craftsmanship. Murano glass was often ordered by European royal courts until the 17th century. Today, enthusiasts continue to collect new and used Murano glass products.
Murano glass is glass made on the Venetian island of Murano, which has specialized in unusual glass products for centuries. Many types of Murano glass products use bright and intense colors. The millefiori or rosette is made by cutting bundles of glass rods that create decorative, colorful patterns. Cameo glass is created by fusing two separate colored layers of glass and then carving the top layer to highlight the color underneath.
Texture and metal additions
Certain types of Murano glass are renowned for their structures and textures. Cristallo Venezio, otherwise known as Venetian crystal, is the first clear glass ever made. It is used for chandeliers and some sculptures. Pulegoso glass has a rough surface with small bubbles inside the clear glass. Lattimo is a textured glass called a "glass of milk" due to its white color. Filigree glass has fine threads spun inside in a spiral or pattern.
Some Murano glass products include metallic elements that produce a shimmery effect. Transparent glass coated with gold leaf is engraved with a pattern. Sometimes a gold plate is inserted between two layers of glass. Avventurina glass - clear glass with small pieces of metal shavings inside. Typically, artisans use copper for this type of glass.
Authenticity and likeness
Authentic Murano glass is produced only in Murano. Artisans in Murano still make glass crafts using numerous traditional methods. A special tour can be purchased to see the glassmaking process.
Replicas or fakes are called "Murano style" glass. Many replicas are produced in Asia and South America. To prevent counterfeiting, all new Murano glass items made in Italy have holographic stickers with a unique serial number.
Where is sold
In Venice, there are a lot of shops and souvenir shops selling Murano glass products, from the airport to departments in megamalls and private shops. It will not be difficult for any tourist to buy a good thing there. It can be a lamp, figurine, pendant, bracelet or earrings.
You don't need to fly to Italy, but buy Murano glass in online stores. But in any case, when purchasing a product made of real Murano glass, a certificate of authenticity and a hologram must be attached.
