How do you know if you are buying real Murano glass?

I am regularly asked if we sell jewelry made of real Murano glass. People are afraid of imitation. And rightly so! Because there are enough scammers who sell products that are imitated from 'normal' glass. In a far, usually Asian, country. I will explain to you what Murano glass is and how you can distinguish fake from real. 

What is Murano glass?

The 'special' ingredient in Murano glass is silica sand, while special fluxes and stabilizers are added to melt the glass at lower temperatures and make beautiful objects. They do this only in Italy, in the lagoon of Venice, on the archipelago of Murano. 

How do you distinguish real from fake Murano glass?

Let me give you a hand with some practical tips when buying Murano glass products. It is important to know that you are buying a real product and not an imitation. Here are a few points to keep in mind: 

Place of origin:

Genuine Murano glassware is made exclusively on the island of Murano, near Venice, Italy. Therefore, check to see if the glassware is marked "Murano". 

Shape and design of Italian glassware Murano:

Murano glass is known for its unique designs and intricate shapes. Look at the details of the piece and notice the craftsmanship and creativity. Authentic Murano glass will often have intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and refined finishes.

Check the authenticity:

If you buy Murano glass products, make sure it is real Murano glass, and if you doubt the authenticity, ask about the origin of the glassware, where it is made. No (clear) answer is given? That is a big red flag! 

Warranty and certificates:

Always ask for the Guarantee Certificate Original Murano Glass, Made in Italy. This greatly increases the chance that you will receive an authentic piece of jewelry. At Sparkles Online you will receive this certificate with every order.

Natural materials:

Murano glass is pure and is produced with natural materials. This makes it special and unique. Do you see something of plastic in or on the glass? Beware, this is probably a fake jewelry.

Nickel free:

Check that the closures or metal parts of the selected product are nickel-free according to the European Directive 93/27/CEE.

Millefiori technique:

One of the most famous techniques of Murano glass is the millefiori technique , where small pieces of glass in different colors are arranged in a pattern and then embedded in the glass. Genuine Murano glass with millefiori designs is a good indication of authenticity.

Aventurine effect:

Aventurine is another technique often used in Murano glass, where small metal particles (gold or silver foil) are added to the glass to create a sparkling effect. If the glass has a sparkling or glittering appearance, it may be genuine Murano glass. 

Smooth surface:

With real Murano glass, the glass feels smooth and soft . The decorations are never glued on! There are no seams visible on the surface. 

Stamp or signature:

Some genuine Murano glass pieces may be marked with a logo, signature or stamp identifying the maker. This can help confirm authenticity. 

Inscription:

On factory glass there is always an inscription in relief or glued on a label. 

Weight:

Murano glass products are heavier than regular glass. 

Prices:

Murano glass is handmade and of high quality, so it can be relatively expensive. Murano glass prices are always higher than comparable jewelry made of 'normal' glass. If an offer seems too good to be true, it may be an imitation.

I hope these tips help you to buy the Murano glass product you are looking for with more confidence. Enjoy your purchase and cherish the beautiful craftsmanship of Murano glass!

Judith Schoorlemmer