Carnival glass has humble origins and was once seen as "Poor man's Tiffany".  Its attractive patterns, cheerful colors, and generally low prices now make it eagerly collected worldwide.

With the light behind it, carnival glass can warm and beautify the home with its striking colors and flamboyant patterns.  There is always scope for a lucky discovery or shrewd investment, even though these pieces were mass-produced during the 20th century.

Did you know???  The name carnival glass was not used until the 1950's.  It supposedly originated from glasswear made in the US, Australia, Europe, and Argentina in the 1920's and 30's.  These inexpensive items were often sold cheaply or given away at carnivals as prizes, hence the name carnival!

Patterns galore...  Collectors divided the glass founded today into two catagories.  The golden era of 1922- 1925 provided the first and most collectible category known as the Prime carnival glass.  Leading manufacturers were the Fenton and Northwood companies, both in West Virginia.  Early Fenton carnival glass is unmarkable but often has unusual patterns, such as cherries, and color such as red and celeste blue;  it is also frequently had extra hand finished details.

Look-a-likes...  By the 1960's carnival glass had arrived as a popular collecting area.  Some makers in the US, such as Fenton, created new lines using the original molds.  Unlike its earlier products its new carnival glass is marked with a script fenton inside an oval cartouche.  Imperials more recent wares are also marked.  Other new items have been made from fresh molds, or from old molds not originally used for carnival glass.

Top tips... 

Look for strong colors in the base glass and shimmering iridescence in the surface finish.  The best way to see the true base color of carnival glass is to hold it up to the light.

To check for flaws, hold a piece against a stong light and look at it through a magnifying glass.

Check that holes have not been plugged or chips repaired using acrylics.  A careful inspection will show up any flaws no matter how carefully they have been concealed.

Look for pattern varients by the same company.  They can generate extra interest, which can mean a higher value if the piece is also attractive and in excellent condition.

I hope this helps you a little bit in your journey!