Jadeite

I have an extreme and passionate devotion to jadeite.  I got my first pieces when I was in college and since then my obsession has only intensified.  Jadeite is a type of pale green American glassware that was produced from the middle of the 20th century.  Some companies are still creating reproductions and new pieces today.  Either old or new, jadeite is very durable, strong, and aesthetically appealing.   

Characterized as being a sea-foam green, some older versions of jadeite can be slightly darker, while some can be more transparent, which is a version known as 'clam broth'.  Originally, jadeite was sold very inexpensively, sometimes sold in promotional sets from hardware stores, but its popularity and value has grown greatly.  Most people can find common plates, mugs, bowls, and other dishes, but more obscure pieces such as butter dishes, and rare serving bowls (like the tear-drop shaped Swedish bowls) are harder to find and can be very expensive.  

Jadeite is my version of my 'fine china' and I'm incredibly proud of my collection, and like any good collector, I can't wait to come across my next great find.  If you'd like a further introduction to jadeite, check out this video.  Below are some photos of my personal collection.   

Refrigerator canister

Egg cups

Butter dish

Lancaster

Visiting Lancaster, PA was a small whimsical adventure cooked up by one of my best friends, Angela, and myself.  Part educational, part entertainment--complete fun.  We rode in a real Amish buggy, visited a real Amish farm, learned about Lancaster ghosts, and braved a night in a practically abandoned hotel.  We ate some custom donuts, I bought some deco jadeite glassware, and then we admired the restoration of the local Amtrak train station.  We also took a side trip to the National Christmas Center (next week's blog post).  We had a wonderful time visiting Pennsylvania, except we wish more things would've been open.

Check out my photos below: