Top 5 Vintage Pyrex Patterns

Vintage Pyrex is treasured by collectors, and at our estate sales in Tacoma, Gig Harbor and Olympia, we are have seen some beautiful patterns.

Pyrex dates back to 1915 with simple baking dishes made of clear glass. It was a new and exciting piece of kitchenware because it allowed cooks to see their food cook. Soon, they expanded with bowls, measuring cups, butter dishes and so much more, and in 1947, colored Pyrex bowls made their debut.

It is those colorful pieces of Pyrex that are now the most valuable and sought after. Between 1956 and 1987, Corning Glass Works released more than 150 different patterns of Pyrex opal ware, according to the Corning Glass Museum.

With vintage Pyrex, personal preference will always trump an expert’s opinion, so with that, here are our top five Pyrex patterns.

Pattern: Primary Colors

Years in Production: 1945-1945

What it’s known for: This set is known as the world’s most famous set of mixing bowls. The bright, bold colors of this series included yellow, green, red, and blue. The entire set retailed for a mere $2.50, and Primary Colors was the first Pyrex opalware produced.

Pattern: Gooseberry

Years in Production: 1957-1966

What it’s known for: Offered in a pink on white, white on pink, black on yellow, black on white and a promotional version of gold on beige, Gooseberry was one of the first four patterns offered by Pyrex, and it was one of the first patterns to be featured on their now-iconic “Cinderella Bowls.” Cinderella Bowls feature a pouring spout on one side with a handle on the other.

Pattern: Butterprint

Years in Production: 1957-1968

What it’s known for: Butterprint was their third printed pattern in the opal ware collection – preceded by Snowflake and Daisy. The print is distinctive, with an Amish farmer and wife as the center piece, flanked by beautiful artwork. This print was one of the first to be featured on the new “Cinderella Bowls,” which were a set of nested mixing bowls with a handle or spout on one side.

Pattern: Lucky in Love

Years in Production: 1959

What it’s known for: Speculated to have been a test piece or limited-edition item, the original Lucky in Love pattern remains one of the most sought-after pieces. The pattern of two four-leaf clovers surrounded by what looks like grass, was printed only on the one-quart Round Casserole dish.

Pattern: Dots

Years in Production: 1969-1973

What it’s known for: Originally, this set came with just three colors: red, yellow and blue. The larger, Green Dot bowl was released in 1969. Much like the Primary Colors, this set has timeless features that make it a desirable pattern.

Pyrex patterns started in 1947 and continued into the 1980s, and whether you’re looking to start or complete your collection, estate sales are a great place to look. Check out our upcoming estate sales. We’d love to see you!