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The art glass movement began in the
1960's and continued through the end of the century.
Artists made one of a kind pieces comprised of molten glass
and mineral pigments to create colorful and decorative show
pieces. Much of glass is from the Chalet line and
other pieces are termed as Alberta glass. Much of the
weight comes from the contained lead in the glass.
Chalet glass originated in Montreal by a
group of Italian glass blowers from Murano, Italy and
operated in Quebec and Ontario until 1981. Most are
etched with Chalet or have a foil label. Any etched
with a double B indicates that it was commissioned and sold
by Birks. Some may bear the label Lorraine.
Alta glass was made in Alberta but has a
watery or rippled effect where the extensions turn, whereas
Chalet or Murano glass has a clear flow in the turns.
It is basically blown glass and not blown crystal like the
Chalet glass. |
