Some people are astounded when they hear about certain pieces of art selling for skyrocketing prices. This happens because the value of art often may not be apparent at first glance.

The value of a piece of art is found in its beauty, history, and the emotional significance that each person gives to it. That’s why, inevitably, some people will find much more value in a piece of art than others.

As an artist, you should ask yourself the following question:

How can I create a piece of art that people find valuable? The following ideas should get you in the right direction:

Factors that determine the value of a glass piece

Authenticity

One of the most important factors of the value of a piece of glass is its authenticity. A hand-made glass piece, especially when signed by the artist, is almost always going to be more valuable than a mass-produced one. It is unique and there’s no identical copy, which makes it rare and increases its price.

Theme

Certain themes tend to be more valuable and sell better than others. For example, pieces made with borosilicate glass will generally cost more than those made with soda-lime glass because borosilicate is more durable, resistant to rapid changes in temperature, and more expensive to manufacture.

Condition

The condition of a glass piece will largely determine its value. For example, a well executed piece, showing technical prowess and exceptional appearance will often sell at higher price points during auctions. Valuable glass pieces are most often in pristine condition, with little to no signs of natural wear and tear.

Provenance

The value of a glass piece instantly increases when it originates from a recognized artist. Dale Chihuly, is one of the most popular and highly sought after contemporary glass artists, famously known for his creation, “Fiori di Como”, gracing the lobby at the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas.

Size

Larger art pieces tend to be more valuable. They require more materials, due to their larger area to decorate and shape, and thus they’re usually more difficult to create.

Medium

The type of glass used, as well as the techniques, have an influence on its value. Pressed glass for instance is one of the most commonly found glassware. Using a plunger, molten glass is pressed into molds, rendering the technique ideal for mass production. This form of manufacturing could never measure to hand blown glass artistry.

Significance

One of the most important factors of evaluating glass is the emotional significance of a piece of art. Significance can arise from the history of how the piece came to be, or what the piece represents. Some of the most widely used glass art emerged during the The Art Nouveau era.

The rebellion against industrialism and standardized art academia permeates every facet of colorful glass, spanning from massive dome ceilings, to Tiffany’s iconically intricate lamps.