Chalet Glass | EDAG Glass | Lorraine Glass – Clear Glass Identification Guide from Common to Super Rare
- lunasabrina
- Aug 17
- 30 min read
Updated: Nov 8
Quick Links: Chalet Glass | EDAG Glass | Lorraine Glass
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Figurines and Paperweights
Figurines
Chalet Glass Birds / Owls
Chalet Glass Cat & Dogs
Chalet Glass Elephants
Chalet Glass Horse
Chalet Glass Penguin
Chalet Glass Bear
Chalet Glass Fish
Chalet Glass Kangaroo
Chalet Glass Tree
Chalet Glass Sail Boat
Chalet Glass Egg Paperweight
Chalet Glass Decorated Egg Paperweight
Obelisk
Chalet Glass Eiffel Tower Obelisk
Centrepieces or Utility Art Glass
Chalet Glass or Chalet Artistic Glass - Split/Pocket Pieces
Chalet Glass Ashtray
Chalet Glass Four Pull Basket
Chalet Glass Stretch
Chalet Glass Hook and Curl
Chalet Glass Vase
Chalet Glass Vase
Chalet Glass Gondola
Chalet Glass Bowl
Chalet Glass Ashtray
Chalet Glass Swan
Chalet Glass Stretch ( Mini, Medium Large)
Chalet Glass Spike and Curl
Chalet Glass Vase
Chalet Glass Bowl
Chalet Glass Basket
Chalet Glass Swan
Chalet Glass Fascination Par CM
Chalet Glass Swan
EDAG Glass - Cristallo with Colour Accents
EDAG Glass Ashtray
EDAG Glass Stretch
EDAG Glass - Cristallo with Coloured Pockets
EDAG Glass Hook and Curl
EDAG Glass Gondola
EDAG Glass Bird With Blue Pocket
EDAG Glass Snowman
EDAG Glass Bird
EDAG Glass Mini Cristallo Pieces with Colours
EDAG Glass Fish
EDAG Glass Bird
EDAG Glass Gondola
EDAG Glass Basket
EDAG Glass Cristallo with Coloured Dots or Ribbons
Dots
EDAG Glass Ashtray
Ribbons
EDAG Glass Fish
EDAG Glass Ashtray
EDAG Glass Gondola
EDAG Glass Vase
EDAG Glass Two-tone Cristallo Pieces (Colour-Over-Clear)
EDAG Glass Bowl
EDAG Glass Basket
EDAG Glass Gondola
EDAG Glass Pure Cristallo
EDAG Glass Stretch
EDAG Glass Mini Gondola
Lorraine Glass Industries Clear with Black Rims
Vase
Basket
Ashtray
Lorraine Glass Industries Two-tone, colour over
Bird
Lorraine Glass Industries - Clear Glass with Coloured Up-Pushes
Stretch
Platter/Bowl
Lorraine Glass Industries - Pure Clear
Vase
Lorraine Glass Paperweights
Elephant
Duck
Racoon
Horse
Introduction to Chalet Glass | EDAG Glass | Lorraine Glass
A glistening clear body with a delicate touch of colour. Elongated, fragile pulls seem to whisper, “Don’t touch me, I’ll break.” This is the thought that runs through our minds as we stare at Canadian vintage art glass. Iconic glass houses such as EDAG, Chalet Artistic Glass, and Lorraine Glass Industries introduced clear pieces - some accented with colour or containing coloured pockets - into their production lines. Chalet Artistic Glass and EDAG Crystal are particularly well known for these styles, while Lorraine Glass Industries produced far fewer examples.
As a collector focused on completing sets, I tend to categorize these pieces into three groups: completely clear, clear with colour accents, and clear with coloured pockets or divisions. Clear Canadian vintage art glass is not commonly found, and collectors who own these pieces often display them with pride, fully intending to dust them for life. Clear glass exudes elegance through its simplicity and form. These pieces are unforgiving in their creation. There is no room for error. The glassblower cannot rush the process, and any contamination, whether from furnace debris, excess ribbons, or stretch marks, undermines the outcome.
Given its nature, the recipes for clear glass had to be meticulously balanced to eliminate unwanted hues. This was often achieved by adding components like manganese, selenium, and others. However, these additions have caused confusion, particularly the misconception that clear glass containing manganese is uranium glass. Some articles, resellers, and buyers mistakenly promote manganese-clear glass as uranium-based due to the dull, distant glow it can produce. That glow is often exaggerated through post-image editing. With its high reflectivity and ability to absorb surrounding light and colour, clear glass is frequently misidentified, leading to further confusion. To clarify the differences, check out an article about uranium glass and continue reading to expand your knowledge of clear glass forms.
In my pursuit of completing sets, I’ve acquired a variety of clear glass shapes. Each new addition brings a sense of accomplishment. I collect for two main reasons: data collection and decoration. Sourcing these pieces has been challenging, given their limited availability and the level of competition among collectors.
Since writing the book Maestro Danilo Pavanello & EDAG, I’ve gained a foundational understanding of production. Concepts such as “limited runs” could involve thousands or even tens of thousands of units, depending on custom orders or artist choices. Unfortunately, there is limited documentation, so we often rely on current availability to determine rarity. Availability and form standards shape desirability. Across the board, values range from moderately high to high for artistic utility pieces like vases, centrepieces, and candle holders. Animal figurines, however, tend to fall in the lower to moderate range, heavily influenced by the specific animal represented.
At EDAG, clear glass pieces are referred to as “Cristallo,” as they used a Murano Cristallo glass recipe. This recipe omits lead, creating an exceptionally clear glass free from contaminating hues. Chalet Artistic Glass, by contrast, used a leaded glass recipe, producing what is commonly known as “Crystal.” In photos of Chalet crystal pieces, you’ll notice varying hues due to the differing amounts of lead used. For Lorraine, the glass recipe is not fully understood, and clear pieces are exceptionally rare, so no specific name has yet been coined by collectors. To learn more about Cristallo in Canadian glass, click the link.
Canadian vintage art glass is generally known for its vibrant colours, with monotone or two-tone colourways being more common than clear, crystal, or Cristallo styles. Clear glass is simple in design and sleek in style, requiring ample light to be showcased properly, and often benefitting from colourful accents nearby. The absence of colour heightens the need for light, which is why clear glass is particularly appreciated by a select group of collectors. Not all are drawn to it. As a result, clear pieces with colour accents, such as pockets or ribbons, tend to have broader appeal.
This Chalet Glass, EDAG Glass, Lorraine Glass – Clear Glass Identification Guide from Common to Super Rare offers a comprehensive overview of known forms and production patterns. Join us as we explore these unique examples and equip ourselves with the tools to better understand their allure, history, and rarity.
Chalet Glass Smalls: Animals, Figurines, or Paperweights
The terms glass figurines, smalls, paperweights, or animals are often used interchangeably in online searches and conversation. While these terms overlap, “paperweights” typically refer to egg or sphere-shaped glass, with or without colour, and are considered part of the smalls category due to their size.
My friends who are antique dealers define “smalls” as items that fit in the palm of your hand—commonly referred to as knick-knacks. Glass collectors use the term in the same way, encompassing pieces like figurines, animals, and paperweights that are hand-sized.
One size up might be considered “mini,” though there is no standardized term for mid-sized pieces beyond their measurements or function. I personally use the word “monumental” to describe extra-large items.
As for small clear glass animals, Chalet Artistic Glass is the only known Canadian company to have produced them. To date, no strictly clear glass animal figurines have been found for EDAG or Lorraine.
Chalet Artistic Glass Animals
Chalet produced many animal figurines in crystal, particularly those made for Riekes, a known distributor of Chalet. Birds, cats, dogs, elephants, bears, horses, whales, and fish are some of the animal forms found in Chalet crystal. These pieces have been identified with Riekes labels, Chantili labels, etched Chalet marks, or boutique stickers such as A. Cameron. Some examples from these categories are showcased below, while others are not yet included, as I have not acquired them. This article will be updated as new pieces surface.
Chalet Glass Birds / Owls
In the bird category, a variety of species have been found in clear glass, with the owl being among the most notable. Chalet owls appear in multiple forms. Below, we have examples of the Ghost Owl in crystal (Image 1). Also featured are the Riekes Wildlife Collection owls, produced in three sizes: 6”, 8”, and 12.5” in height (Image 2). Lastly, we see the Alien Owl in clear glass with the Chalet etching (Image 3).
Image 1: Chalet Glass Ghost Owl (more photos)
Image 2: Riekes/Chalet Glass Wildlife Collection Owls [1]
Image 3: Chalet Glass Owl Version 1(Catalog # 617)
Image 4: Chalet Glass Owl Version 2 [32]
Chalet also produced a variety of Canadian wildfowl in crystal. Below are examples of these pieces, first is a Canadian goose with a straight neck (Image 1). This one features a Birks label, indicating it was made for and sold at the Birks department store during the 1960s or 1970s. Chalet also created a version of the goose with a bent neck, which can be seen in image 2 below . Additionally, they made a bufflehead duck in crystal which can be seen in Image 3 below.
Among the waterfowl designs, the Chalet glass clear swan stands out, shown in image 4 with its original Chalet Riekes Co. label. One of its most distinctive features is the tail. At first glance it might appear damaged or repaired because of its shortened look. However, the catalogue where this exact piece is featured shows the same tail design, confirming it was intentional. A closer look reveals that the tail was pressed down with a tool during the glass making process. This is visible in the slight glass overlay and the textured impressions left by the tool on the surface. The swan’s deep set eyes were also shaped with a sharp tool, much like the glass pinchers traditionally used in forming fine art glass.
Image 5, This simple designed Chalet Glass chick is a charming example of Canadian vintage art glass. The form is often found in classic Chalet colour patterns such as blue, green, or clear. It reflects Chalet Glass’s playful approach to animal figures, highlighting smooth contours and expressive minimalism typical of Canadian mid-century glass art.
Image 1: Chalet Glass Straight Neck Canada Goose (Catalog # 563)
Image 2: Chalet Glass Bent neck Canada goose(Catalog # 564) (more photos)
Image 3: Chalet Glass Bufflehead Duck (Catalog # 620) [22]
Image 4: Chalet Glass Swan (Catalog # 618)
Image 5: Chalet Glass Chick [#31]
Chalet Glass Cats & Dogs
As described in detail in my cats and dogs article, Chalet produced two varieties of cats and dogs, and each has been found in crystal. The cats with raised tails, shown on all fours, have also been found in other colours and are either etched or marked with Riekes stickers. The crystal version of this style can be seen below in the first image panel.
The other variety, which resembles a Siamese cat sitting upright, appears exclusively in crystal. These have been identified with Chalet or Cameron and Sons stickers. An example of this type is shown below (Image 2)..
The Chalet dogs also come in two forms. The first is a poodle, easily recognized by its long ears and the distinctive pom-pom of hair atop its head (Image 1). The second is a dog with a shape more reminiscent of a beagle, featuring shorter ears and a sturdier build. This version has been found with an A. Cameron sticker, indicating it was likely sold through boutique outlets (Image 2). Both styles have been produced in crystal and, like the cats, are highly collectible due to their charm.
Chalet Glass Elephants
Chalet Artistic Glass created a number of animal figurines in crystal, and elephants are among the most charming and sought-after. All known Chalet elephants have been found in clear crystal and are typically marked with either etched Chalet signatures or Riekes stickers. These elephants appear in a variety of forms, each showcasing the fluid, expressive style that defines Chalet’s sculptural work. Examples of each known form are photographed below.
The first elephant on display is the playful sitting elephant. It features a curled trunk, heart-shaped ears, and delicately indented eyes, giving it a whimsical and endearing expression. [11] (more photos)
The second elephant is a labelled Chalet Glass elephant with a more upright trunk , this elephant can be found with a more horizontal trunk but this is a minor form adjustment from the hand-making process. (more photos)
Ferro & Lazzarini Elephant - Murano Made [20]
Caution for a look alike, below is a Murano made elephant that is very similar to the Chalet elephant imaged above. This is a high quality piece of glass and can be tricky for Canadian glass collector's to distinguish the differences. Two differences that caught my eye which can be helpful is the Ferro & Lazzarini elephant has three ear folds vs the four seen on the Chalet piece. Secondly, the body of the Ferro & Lazzarini elephant is more plump.
Third on display we have a labelled sitting Chalet Glass elephant with triangle ears and an upright curled trunk. This elephant's body forms a triangle with its back legs meeting the front ones and indented glass between. (more photos)
This labelled Chalet Glass elephant with its trunk up is featured in the Chalet catalog alongside some of the other animals we have and will explore.
Lastly, in the crystal elephant category, we have this Chalet glass elephant with a segmented base and the Riekes Crisa Canada label [28]. This elephant has often been misidentified. I once owned one myself and, based on poor advice, parted with it under the belief it was not a Chalet piece. Through my research and collecting journey, I am pleased to document this example for future reference in provenance.
The elephant imaged below by Chalet Artistic Glass has a more elongated body and trunk. It contains a lot of lead around the outside gathering which provides a slight yellow hue, which is accented by yellow lights. This hue can be deceptive as it is similar to the hue that clear glass uranium gives.
Chalet Glass Horse
The next crystal animal worth noting is the Chalet glass horse pictured below. This piece is exceptionally rare, with fewer than five known within the community. The horse features a beautifully applied glass mane and a charming face. Its tail is a U-shaped piece of glass applied after the body was formed, and the ears were also added separately. The catalogue photo shown below helps us assess this horse more closely and compare it with any future examples.
I do not recall many stories from my glass pick-ups, but this horse is an exception. It came from the collection of a family member whose two brothers worked in the Chalet factory. The horse was part of a larger group of Chalet animals kept in the family’s care. Acquiring them was special, knowing they travelled directly from the factory to the family before reaching me. To be only the second owner of these pieces is both rare and exciting.
Chalet Glass Penguin
Chalet penguins are hard to find and are therefore considered rare additions to any collection of Canadian vintage art glass animals. Their smooth lines and upright stance make them especially eye-catching, standing apart from more commonly found forms. These penguins have been identified with Chalet labels, and in some cases, as seen with the example below, with a Chantili label. The limited number of documented pieces contributes to their desirability among collectors and adds to the mystique surrounding Chalet’s smaller animal productions.
Chalet Glass Bears
Chalet created a variety of bear figurines, and naturally, some have been found in crystal. These bears appear in several forms, some resembling polar bears, others resembling smaller forest bears. They have been seen with their heads positioned either up or down, adding variation to their overall posture and expression. The bear imaged below is catalog # 605 with the neck straight out, there is a version with its neck bent lower down (catalog # 621).
Chalet Glass Fish
Similar to the Chalet glass bears, the Chalet fish had many different forms and colourways. The form below is a 5" crystal fish which was featured in the Chalet catalog pages depicting crystal animals.
Another crystal glass fish design can be seen in the Chalet bomboniere, or bombo for short, pictured below. Bombonieres are an integral part of Italian culture. They were traditionally created to be given as gifts at events such as weddings, communions, and other celebrations. They are usually filled with almond candies, wrapped in fine mesh, and tied with a ribbon. A small card with the event details and names of those involved would then be attached to the front of the bombo. My Nonna’s generation (1930s) often kept the bombo untouched, never eating the candy, while newer generations tend to remove the packaging and enjoy the piece inside.
Chalet Glass Fish Bomboniere
Chalet Glass Opaline Crystal
Even rarer than the Chalet penguin is the kangaroo imaged below. This kangaroo is not strictly crystal, as its label indicates it is made of opaline glass with gold flecking. Opaline glass, also known as milk glass, has a milky appearance created by adding opacifiers to the glass mix. These opacifiers, such as bone ash, fluorides, or phosphates, alter the optical properties of the glass by diffusing light throughout the form (source).
Another example of Chalet’s use of opaline glass can be seen in a rare bird figurine, similar in finish to the kangaroo. This bird, with its softly glowing, milky body and subtle gold flecking, showcases the unique qualities of opaline glass. Like the kangaroo, it is labelled accordingly, confirming its material as opaline rather than crystal.
Chalet Glass Opal with Gold Flecking Label Kangaroo [2]
Chalet Glass Opal with Gold Flecking Labelled Bird (Catalog # 701) [14]
Chalet Art Glass: Figurines
Chalet Glass Trees
The Chalet trees are also among the most sought-after pieces. When I first started collecting, they were considered hard to find; however, over the span of five years, I have come across more than 20. The majority are found in crystal, very few feature colour, and those are considered the extremely rare trees.
In image 4 below, you can see an example of a rare coloured Chalet glass tree with green colouring, made for Chantili. It appears that most of the crystal trees were made for Riekes, as that is the predominant sticker found on them. The most common sizes are the 6”, 9”, and 10” height varieties. The largest tree I have found measured 14” tall. Images 1 and 2 show variations in the trees’ branches and styles. The trees typically have six bottom branches, as shown in the images below. By observing image 1 and 2 we can also see slight differences in the bases, they are usually on round globular bases however the tree in image 2 has more of a cone-like base.
Another interesting and rare example is the Chalet Glass ring tree, visible in image 3. This tree has three bottom branches, and the tips of each are curled upwards to hold a ring.
Image 1: Two varieties of Chalet Glass Trees
Image 2: Another variety of Chalet Tree
Image 3: Chalet Glass Ring Tree
Image 4: Chantili Labelled Green Tree
Chalet Glass - Sailboats
In the clear crystal category, we also find the Chalet glass sailboat. These boats have been seen in coloured varieties such as cranberry and blue, with cranberry being the most common. The clear crystal version is much rarer. The example imaged below features the Chalet Riekes label.
Labels and etchings are especially important when identifying sailboats, as Rossi Glass, another Canadian glasshouse, produced very similar designs. Without proper markings, most collectors are hesitant to purchase these pieces due to uncertainty about their origin. Chalet sailboats come in three sizes and are often tilted at a slight angle, a subtle variation that helps distinguish them from Rossi Glass versions. (More Photos)
Chalet Glass - Paperweights
Chalet paperweights often contain a substantial amount of crystal glass, although some incorporate coloured designs within the clear form. Chalet produced four primary paperweight designs: the sea anemone, confetti, flower, and what is sometimes referred to as the DNA strand.
To respect copyright and ownership rights, only two examples of the sea anemone paperweights and one confetti paperweight will be shown below. The remaining designs will be described to the best of my ability.
The paperweight known as the double-stranded or “DNA” design features three twisting strands, often in orange, spiralling from the base to the top of the piece, with a burgundy glass line running straight through them. Although this style has been referred to as the “DNA” paperweight, I would disagree with that title, as DNA is a double helix, not three or more strands.
The flower paperweights feature three flowers with white stems and bullicante bubbles at their centres. They have been found with either light blue or orange petals.
Lastly in this category is the egg paperweight, which is also pictured below. This piece is intriguing in its simplicity. Shaped like an egg, it is made entirely of crystal glass and appears to function as a paperweight, with a flattened bottom that allows it to sit securely on a stack of papers. The example shown bears the Riekes Chalet label.
Very Rare Chalet Glass Egg
Chalet Glass Sea Anenome Paperweight: in blue and yellow and burgundy and yellow
Chalet Glass Confetti Paperweight
Chalet Glass: Eiffel Tower Obelisk [21]
Of all the Chalet Art Glass pieces featured in this article, this obelisk ranks at the top in terms of rarity. To date, it appears to be a one-off, no other similar examples have been documented.
The craftsmanship is exceptional: the glass cuts are strategically placed to create a striking three-dimensional illusion of the Eiffel Tower within. Interestingly, the tower itself is etched only into one panel, yet the way the light interacts with the angles and surfaces gives the impression of a full internal structure.
Whoever the artist was, they had a strong understanding of light refraction and diffraction, concepts that are brilliantly executed in this piece. It can be speculated that this piece was made in collaboration with Monogram Glass Company. Knowing that this relationship exists, we can hope for more to be found.
Chalet's glass operations are complemented by the Monogram Glass Company, a 'twin' firm of 35 employees dedicated to decorating the uncoloured glass with hand-cut designs and engravings, a collaborative effort that enhances the beauty of the final product.
To read more about this business relationship click here
Chalet Glass or Chalet Artistic Glass - Split/Pocket Pieces
The Chalet split or pocket pieces are among the most sought-after items in today’s Chalet glass market. This line features an abundance of clear glass with two distinct pockets of colour, most commonly found in olive and blue, though examples in amber and orange have also been documented. While most of these pieces bear the Chalet etching, one has been found with an exceptionally rare sticker from a vintage Montreal-based jewellery company, Roger Hebert.
Although it has been suggested that these were special pieces created outside the company’s regular production, the number found suggests a slightly different narrative. The presence of the Roger Hebert sticker, from a jeweller that operated in Montreal during the 1960s and 1970s, implies that these items were distributed through established retail networks rather than being limited or experimental runs.
As with many other Chalet productions, the ashtray form is the most frequently found, representing the majority of known examples in this line. This further supports the idea of a broader production run than originally believed. Of course, as with all interpretations in the world of vintage and antique items, these are hypotheses until supported by concrete evidence. Still, it is important to explore the many possibilities.
From my own collection and those of other collectors, there have been upwards of 25 ashtrays in this colour combination identified—a notable figure considering the relatively small size of the Canadian vintage art glass community.
Most common split Chalet piece (ashtray)
Exceptionally Rarer Etched Chalet Glass Orange and Amber Split Colour Basket [3]
Nonetheless the why or how these pieces came to be while a fascinating thought is not the aim of this article, rather to learn to identify them and understand the forms in which they were created is our pursuit. The pieces have been found in all the common Canadian vintage art glass forms; vases, gondolas, baskets, hook and curls, stretches, and ashtrays. The only form I have yet to see is a spike and curl however that does not mean it doesn't exist.
The baskets have been found in two forms which we can see below. One form lacks any side pulls and is a more simple version of a basket these pieces are 11.75" in height and 7" in length but I've found various sizes up to 13" in height. The second has two added side pulls and has been found in a common size of 11.5" in height and 7" in length as well as a larger size of 16.5" in height and 8" in length.
Etched and Labeled Chalet Glass Split (Pocket) Two Pull Basket
Etched and Labeled Chalet Glass Split (Pocket) Four Pull Basket
The stretches have been found in 2 sizes ranging from a mini version which is 11" in length and 4' in height, and regular size at 20" in length and 8" in height. They all have the same form with two side pulls , each pull having a rib of glass under it accentuating the pockets even further.
Etched Chalet Glass Split Mini Stretch
Etched Chalet Glass Split Stretch in the Standard Size
The hook & curls similar to the baskets have been found in a version which lacks side pulls and a version with side pulls, equally 4 pulls total on the piece. The two pull Chalet glass Split Hook and Curl measures 11.25" in height and 8" in length, while the four pull hook and curl measures 13" in height and 8.5" in length.
Etched Chalet Artistic Glass Two Tone Split -Two Pull Hook and Curl
Chalet Artistic Glass - Four Pull Hook and Curl
The vases have been found in 4 forms the most common is the vase with the two long side pulls (Image 1). More rare are forms found with four pulls which feature two center pulls, one with a flattened body (Image 2) and the other with a glass rib which runs down the back and front from these two side pulls (Image 3). Lastly, is a one of a kind, the only found in this form to date, closer to a bud vase with two elongated portions running from each pocket with a staggered effect (Image 4).
Image 1: Etched Chalet Glass Split Two Pull Vase with Side Tooling
Image 2: Etched Chalet Glass Split Four Pull Vase
Image 3: Etched Chalet Glass Split Four Pull with Glass Ribs [4]
Image 4: Extraordinarily Rare Chalet Glass and Split Bud Vase [5]
The gondola although not imaged here is the most basic of this line and features a sleek gondola shape with the two pockets.
Chalet Glass - Ribbon Pieces
Chalet produced a number of pieces that are predominantly crystal but feature ribbons of colour, adding visual depth and character. These pieces have been found in various forms, including ashtrays, bowls, vases, gondolas, stretches, and more abstract shapes that appear to be hybrids, such as the blue ribbon piece shown below (Image 1).
The addition of colour enhances the appeal of these items, as it allows them to transition more easily into a variety of display settings. Below, you will find several examples: a striking Chalet Glass crystal vase with red ribbons along the sides (Image 2), a Chalet Glass crystal gondola with blue ribbons (Image 3), a Chalet Glass crystal bowl with vibrant orange ribbons (Image 4), a Chalet Glass trillium-shaped ashtray in crystal with red ribbons (Image 5), and a Chalet Glass swan with amber ribbons (Image 6).
Image 1: Chalet Glass Gondola/Bowl fusion with Applied Blue Ribbon
Image 2: Chalet Glass Vase with Applied Red Ribbon
Image 3: Chalet Glass Two Pull Gondola with Applied Blue Ribbon
Image 4: Chalet Glass Bowl with Applied Orange Ribbon
Image 5: Chalet Glass Ashtray with Applied Orange Ribbon
Image 6: Chalet Glass Swan with Amber Ribbon [27]
Chalet Glass - Full Clear Pieces
Aside from animal figurines, Chalet also produced many of their more common forms in pure crystal. The most frequently found pieces are stretches and vases. Most of the crystal forms exist in mini versions, typically measuring up to 10 inches in height. The mini versions of vases and spike and curls are more commonly seen than their larger counterparts.
Stretches have been found in their regular sizes, ranging from 17 to 26 inches in length, as well as in mini versions measuring approximately 8 inches. Both formats are shown below.
Featured below are examples of crystal stretches, a mini spike and curl, a mini crystal spike, a crystal twist vase, and a crystal tornado bowl.
To learn about how much these have sold for, click here. You will be able to locate them under unique stretches.
Clear Chalet Glass Stretch - approximately 26.15" long
Clear Chalet Glass Stretch - approximately 17" long
Clear Chalet Glass Mini Stretch - 10.5" long
Clear Chalet Glass Mini Spike and Curl - 8-10" in height [6]
Clear Chalet Glass Cigar Ashtray [30]
Labelled Chalet Glass Mini Spike Vase
Clear Chalet Glass Twist Vase with an unpolished base
Clear and Etched Chalet Glass Tornado Bowl
Some unique pieces have been found in pure crystal like the 3 point imaged below.
Clear and Etches Chalet Glass 3 Point Basket
Don Shepherd for Chalet Glass Vase
In this category we have an impressive crystal clear Chalet glass swan centerpiece measuring 16 inches tall, 9.5 inches long, and 5.5 inches wide. Although it is an animal, it is far too large to be placed in the figurines or smalls category above. Its shape is more commonly found in the cranberry-over-clear colourway and is often seen in full colour, but this clear swan is noticeably scarcer than its counterparts.
Chalet Glass Clear Crystal Swan
Chalet Glass - Colour-over-crystal
Lastly, in the Chalet glass category, we have pieces that feature a transition from colour to crystal glass. To date, these were most commonly made for Fascination par CM, a Chalet distributor, and have been seen primarily in amber-over-crystal. Below, we can see two forms of these pieces: one is a four-point design, and the other is a basket. Another example of a colour-over-crystal are the Chalet cranberry pink-over-crystal swans imaged below. This colour combination has also been seen on other forms like gondolas or bowls.
Chalet Glass Amber-over-crystal Basket etched with Fascination Par CM
Chalet Glass Amber-over-crystal Basket Etched with Fascination Par CM
Chalet Glass Swan Cranberry Pink over Clear
EDAG Glass Cristallo Pieces
EDAG Glass produced a wide variety of pieces in Cristallo. Maestro Danilo Pavanello spent considerable time in the hotshop, so it is no surprise that many of the Cristallo pieces were created by the Maestro himself. He enjoyed challenging his creativity, and crafting pieces devoid of colour was a task he embraced. Many of these Cristallo works remain in his personal collection, with several being one-of-a-kind creations, either made as special requests or for his family.
The range of EDAG Cristallo pieces includes pure Cristallo, pieces with dots or ribbons of colour, two-tone colourways that transition into Cristallo, and others accented with colour. They also produced a variety of animals and figurines. The clarity of EDAG’s Cristallo glass is exceptional, free from impurities or unwanted hues. In this section, we will explore EDAG’s beautifully crafted Cristallo glass.
EDAG Glass Cristallo with Colour Accents
One of the most collected types of EDAG Cristallo features coloured accents, typically in the form of coloured pulls while the body remains in Cristallo. These pieces are thin, with textured ribs that give them elegance and visual appeal. A fusion of Venetian and Canadian design elements, they have occasionally sparked debate about their origins. However, it is confirmed that Maestro Danilo Pavanello created them, making these works a true representation of the EDAG brand.
These pieces appear in various forms, including stretches, baskets, ashtrays, and creative designs such as stars, all of which can be seen below.
EDAG Glass Cristallo Stretch in blue and amber (more photos)
EDAG Glass Cristallo Star in blue and amber
The most common colour palette for these pieces is blue and amber. Less frequently found are combinations of lime and amber, while the rarest are red and blue. Below are examples showcasing each of these colourways.
EDAG Glass Cristallo Stretch in Lime and Amber
EDAG Glass Cristallo Basket in Red and Blue
Another example of a cristallo EDAG pieces with a colour accent is the bird bowl imaged below. It features a cristallo body and some red accents in the head and head feathers.
EDAG Glass Cristallo Bird Centrepiece [16]
EDAG Glass - Cristallo with Coloured Pockets
EDAG also produced ribbed Cristallo pieces with pockets of colour, most often seen in the form of spike and curls, like the blue and lime examples shown below. Some pieces take on a more artistic gondola or bowl shape, with ribbing that extends to the rim, creating a spiked effect.
The Maestro also created bowls with multiple coloured pockets, typically in two-tone combinations. These have been found with lime, amber, and blue accents. When asked about the purpose of these multi-pocket bowls, the Maestro explained that they were designed to serve different snacks—each pocket intended for a separate item—meant to be placed on a coffee table while guests mingled over a glass of wine or espresso. (more photos)
EDAG Glass Cristallo Hook and Curls with Coloured Pockets
EDAG Glass Gondola/Bowl with Lime Pocket
EDAG Glass Cristallo Multiple Pocket Bowls (Fruit and Nut Bowl/Dish)
The animal figurines in this style, such as the blue-pocket goose imaged below, also resonate strongly with Maestro Pavanello’s signature work.
EDAG Glass Cristallo Glass Bird With Blue Pocket
EDAG Glass Cristallo Figurines
While discussing ribbed Cristallo pieces, it is essential to explore EDAG’s figurines created in the same style. One notable example is the EDAG Glass Frosty the Snowman. This large Cristallo piece, entirely ribbed, is a true masterpiece. It is important to note that the ribbing pattern was handcrafted rather than moulded, making each piece unique in the number, spacing, and thickness of its ribs. To learn more about the EDAG Glass Frosty the Snowman, click here.
EDAG also produced animal figurines in ribbed Cristallo, including fish, birds, and horses. Below is an example of a bird figurine with an amber beak, eyes, and head feathers. Additional examples can be found in the EDAG book.
EDAG Glass Mini Cristallo Pieces with Colours
In addition to the ribbed pieces, EDAG also produced smaller Cristallo items that are often referred to as “mini” pieces due to their size, typically no larger than 10 inches. These works feature Cristallo layered over coloured glass. Notable examples include a Cristallo-over-uranium set consisting of a stretch, hook and curl, fish, and bird.
These mini pieces vary in form and have been found with amber, blue, olive, red, or orange centres. Examples of some of these other colours can also be seen below. The centres are usually richly saturated, which, as Maestro Danilo Pavanello explained, is achieved by no longer blowing or pulling the piece after the coloured core has been added.
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Uranium Wide Mouth Bass Fish Ashtray
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Uranium Mini Bird Bowl
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Uranium Mini Stretch
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Uranium Mini Hook & Curl
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Uranium Bird
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Red Basket
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Red Stretch
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Red Horizontal Bird
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Red Vertical Bird
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Amber Mini Basket
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Amber Horizontal Bird
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Blue Basket
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Blue Vertical Bird
EDAG Glass Cristallo-over-Blue Horizontal Bird
EDAG Glass Cristallo with Coloured Dots or Ribbons
Some EDAG pieces were adorned with additional design elements, such as coloured dots, commonly referred to by collectors as “EDAG dots.” These decorative accents were applied by hand with precision and added a playful yet refined touch to otherwise minimalist Cristallo forms. One known example is a winged ashtray featuring amber and green dots, where the contrast between the clear glass and the vibrant accents enhances its visual appeal. Other pieces with dot applications exist, however the body of the pieces are coloured glass, the clear glass with dots is a rarer colourway for this technique.
In the “dots” category, one standout is affectionately called the party piece, a name inspired by its bright, joyful character that instantly feels celebratory. Its design features red, blue, and lime green dots, which were worked into the glass during the stretching process before being encased in clear cristallo for a smooth, polished finish. The combination of its form and dotted pattern makes this an exceptionally rare example of Canadian vintage art glass.
EDAG Glass Ashtray with Amber and Lime Green Dots
EDAG Glass Party Piece. Cristallo with Red, Blue and Green Dots [26]
Another design element used by EDAG glass is the application of coloured ribbons, found on ashtrays, fish bowls, vases, and gondolas. Below is a rare set of fish in Cristallo featuring blue and amber ribbons, complete with matching blue eyes. Also pictured is a Cristallo gondola with dark amber and blue ribbons, which was designed to complement the fish bowls.
Ashtrays featuring ribbon designs are more common, as seen in the examples below with blue and uranium ribbons, as well as amber and uranium ribbons. Non-uranium versions have also been found. A less common ashtray using this technique is shown below in a star-shaped formation with an amber ribbon.
It is quite perplexing to consider that this ashtray was designed for a single cigarette, suggesting it was intended for individual use, yet it is extremely large measuring 13.75" long, 13" wide and 5" in height. It also features a lot of glass making it heavier than most ashtrays.
Lastly, vases were produced with ribbon detailing. Featured below is an exceptionally rare vase with blue and amber ribbons and elegant curls at the top.
EDAG Glass Ribbon Fish Bowl with Blue and Amber Ribbons
EDAG Glass Ribbon Gondola with Blue and Amber Ribbons
EDAG Glass Ribbon Ashtray with Blue and Uranium Ribbons and Amber and Uranium Ribbons (more photos)
EDAG Glass Amber Ribbon Ashtray
EDAG Blue and Amber Ribon Vase [12]
EDAG Glass - Two-tone Cristallo Pieces (Colour-Over-Clear)
EDAG also created two-tone pieces that transition from colour into Cristallo. Although these were more production-based, they are now exceptionally hard to find. Documented examples include blue-over-Cristallo and lime-over-Cristallo, appearing in various forms such as stretches, vases, baskets, and ashtrays.
While most pieces in this collection feature the EDAG button base, this is not a strict rule. Additional examples can be found in the EDAG book.
The baskets were made in two sizes: a smaller version measuring 12 inches tall and 5.5 inches long and wide, and a larger version measuring 16 inches tall and 9 inches in both length and width. Both styles feature the signature EDAG wings. Below are examples of the smaller basket in blue-over-Cristallo and the larger basket in lime-over-Cristallo.
EDAG Glass Blue-over -cristallo Winged Basket
EDAG Glass Lime-over -Cristallo Winged Basket
EDAG also produced dramatic pieces like the large lime-over-cristallo ashtray, which measures 13.5 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 6 inches tall. This piece is distinguished by unique U-pushes around the body, molded to push sideways, adding another distinctive element.
EDAG Glass Lime-over-cristallo Ashtray
The only horizontal piece found in this colourway to date is the blue-over-Cristallo gondola or platter shown below. It features the same side style of U-pushes on the bottom body, while the top showcases a unique design similar to the ashtray, with multiple twisted pulls.
EDAG Glass Blue-over-Cristallo Gondola / Platter
EDAG Glass - Pure Cristallo
As we explore EDAG Cristallo glass, it is no surprise that pure Cristallo pieces were also created, though they are relatively rare. These pieces are primarily found in the form of stretches. Given EDAG’s broad use of colour, texture, and layered design elements, pure Cristallo was not the main focus of production. As a result, these clear forms are more limited in availability and often harder to identify without proper markings.
Below is an example of a pure Cristallo EDAG stretch, showcasing the clean lines and exceptional clarity that define this rare category of work.
Monumental EDAG Glass Stretch
Another form found in pure cristallo with only two seen to date is the EDAG clamshell piece which we can see below.
EDAG Glass Gondola / Clam Shell
EDAG Glass - Cristallo Others
The purpose of this article is to provide a foundational understanding of Canadian vintage art glass, specifically focusing on Clear/Crystal/Cristallo pieces. While there are other unique Cristallo items, such as candle holders and one-of-a-kind creations, these are not included here. For those interested in expanding their exploration, including exclusive pieces and catalogue entries, these can be found in the EDAG book.
Lorraine Glass Industries Clear Pieces
Lorraine Glass Industries presents a slightly different narrative when it comes to clear glass. Of the three major Canadian glasshouses, Lorraine has the fewest documented clear pieces, suggesting that the production of such items was not a common practice for the company. Their focus remained largely on vibrant, richly coloured glass, which became a hallmark of their style.
However, while extremely rare, clear Lorraine pieces do exist. These outliers offer a unique glimpse into the range and experimentation that may have occurred behind the scenes. In this section, we will explore the few clear examples that have surfaced, each offering insight into an often-overlooked aspect of Lorraine’s creative legacy.
Lorraine Glass Industries Clear with Black Rims
The most commonly found Lorraine clear pieces are those rimmed with black, although they remain exceptionally rare, with only one example of each form shown below ever documented. These pieces are visually striking due to the dramatic contrast between the saturated black rim and the clear glass body. Known forms include a flower-top vase, basket, ashtrays, and, though not pictured here, a gondola. To learn more about Lorraine’s flower-top vases, click here.
Lorraine Glass Industries Clear with Black Rim Vase [7]
Lorraine Glass Industries Clear with Black Rim Basket [8]
Lorraine Glass Industries Clear with Black Rim Ashtray [9]
Lorraine Glass Industries Clear with Black Rim Ashtray [10]
Below is the sold record for a Lorraine Glass Industries gondola in the clear with a black. It was sold in 2023 during the summer for a price which would be below 2025 marketvalue; though, reflected its value at the time: 160.00 Canadian. It is my opinion that it wouldn't be too much greater in value due to the form being a gondola; however, it could bring an addtional 50 to 90 dollars considering it how uncommon this style is.
Lorraine Glass Industries - Two-tone, colour-over-clear
Lorraine also had a few pieces that are coloured and transition to clear, this colourway has been found in blue-over-clear, amber-over-clear and green-over-clear. They have been found on baskets and birds. Below is an example of a Lorraine bird in green-over-clear, it measures 14.5" long by 10.5" tall and 9" wide.
Lorraine Glass Industries - Clear Glass with Coloured U-Pushes
These next pieces had long been misidentified. They are clear Lorraine pieces with coloured U-pushes near the base. I once owned the stretch pictured below, a clear stretch with firey orange U pushes exposing clear glass beneath the orange gathering, and despite my efforts to convince others that it was indeed Canadian art glass made by Lorraine, it was dismissed. So it is with great pleasure that I now document this piece here for all who wish to explore it. This exact form has also been found with olive , blue, red/orange and amber U-pushes.
Lorraine Glass Clear Stretch with Orange Upwards U-pushes
These pieces come in other colourways as well, with the most common being blue forms featuring orange ribbons. Examples of a basket and stretch can be seen below. In fact, it was the discovery of these coloured examples, already confirmed as known Lorraine forms, that finally settled the long-standing debate about the clear ones.
Below, we can also see a very unique platter form in clear with amber U-pushes, another with orange/red U-pushes and lastly a stunning leaf design with blue U-pushes.
Common Form yet Uncommon Colourway by Lorraine Glass Industries Basket in Blue with Orange Upwards U-Pushes [25]
Common Form yet Uncommon Colourway by Lorraine Glass Indusgtries Basket in Blue with Orange Upwards U-Pushes [24]
Lorraine Glass Clear with amber U-pushes Platter [15]
Lorraine Glass Clear Stretch Platter with amber Upwards U-pushes
Lorraine Glass Clear Platter with Blue Upwards U-Pushes [23]
Lorraine Glass Industries - Pure Clear [13]
To date as far as my knowledge goes there has only been one pure clear Lorraine piece, a clear tulip vase. This piece is without a doubt a Lorraine vase as it has been seen in many other colourways with the iconic 'Made in Canada' Lorraine stickers.
Lorraine Glass Paperweights
Lastly, in the Lorraine clear glass category, we have the animal paperweights. These pieces are made primarily of clear glass but feature coloured collars and eyes. They have been found in several animal forms, including elephants, horses, cats, and ducks. Variations in collar and eye colour include black, green, amber, and olive.
Lorraine Clear Glass Elephant Paperweight (more photos)
Lorraine Glass Industries Duck Paperweight [17]
Lorraine Glass Industries Cat Paperweight [18]
Lorraine Glass Industries Horse Paperweight [19]
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Contributors:
29* Chalet Artistic Glass. Horse Figurine. Chalet Artistic Glass Catalog, n.d., p. 25. Scanned image. Citation source: Ref. 29.
Disclaimer:
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