Learning to check glassware for damage before you make a purchase will help you avoid costly mistakes.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 minutes
Here's How:
- Run your finger along the rim, handle and base of the piece to check for sharp spots indicating chips.
- Hold each piece to the light to inspect for cracks and dings not easily detected otherwise.
- Inspect the surface of the item, especially plates and bowls, for excessive scratching from utensils.
- Examine the top and base of all handles for stress fractures and cracks.
- Make sure glass appearing to be dirty isn't a victim of "sickness" by moistening it with your finger. If the clouding comes back as the glass dries, the cloudy etching is permanent.
Tips:
- Avoid purchasing damaged glassware, especially if you're concerned with resale value.
- Remember that the base of handles, especially on pitchers, are prone to stress fractures that can be easily overlooked.
- "Sickness," a dirty-looking cloudiness permanently etched into glass, cannot be reversed and should be avoided as it makes most pieces virtually worthless.
