Introduction to Mercury Glass
Mercury glass is a decorative material that has become increasingly popular in home decor over the last few years. It gets its name from its distinctive finish – it often appears silvery and reflective, resembling liquid mercury. Mercury glass is created by coating the back of glass with a reflective material like tin or silver, resulting in an antiqued mirrored effect.
This versatile decor material can add interest and sparkle to any space in the home. Mercury glass decor is available in a wide array of forms, from vases and table lamps to platters and photo frames. When paired with items like candles or string lights, the reflective surface amplifies and scatters the light beautifully. Mercury glass objects bring texture and dimension to shelf displays and accent tables.
The mercury glass trend is likely continuing to rise in popularity thanks to its flexibility as well as its vintage-inspired aesthetic. Though it has a modern appeal, the muted metallic sheen of mercury glass is reminiscent of antiqued mirrors, aged metal, and weathered industrial materials. It allows you to add a touch of turn-of-the-century ambiance to any room.
Keep reading to learn more about the history of mercury glass, as well as creative ways it can be incorporated into your home’s decor.
The History Behind Mercury Glass
Though mercury glass has become a popular design element today, its origins are centuries old. Some sources cite its earliest forms dating back to 16th century Venice. However, most agree that mercury glass as we know it emerged during the Victorian era in England during the 1860s and 1870s.
During this period, mercury glass was sometimes referred to as “silvered glass.” The Victorians were known for their fascination with innovative technologies as well as neoclassical styles. The reflective sheen of mercury glass aligned well with the era’s interest in metallics and antiquated aesthetics.
The process for creating mercury glass primarily involves coating the reverse side of glass with a silver solution. When applied meticulously by a skilled artisan, this results in a bright and flawlessly smooth reflective surface. Mercury glass was originally made by alchemists experimenting with metals and chemical coatings. Once the technique was perfected, mercury glass became a popular decorative item in well-to-do Victorian households.
Through the late 1800s and early 1900s, pressed glass patterns emerged as a more affordable mass-produced form of mercury glass. The pressed glass technique allowed artisans to create ornate molded glass items embellished with metallic coatings. As mercury glass became more widely available in the 20th century, its popularity faded in and out according to changing design trends.
However, since the early 2010s, mercury glass has seen a resurgence among designers and decor lovers. Both handmade artisanal and affordable manufactured mercury glass items are popular once again, thanks to the vintage style revival. Modern takes on mercury glass combine a classic ornate aesthetic with a fresh modern sensibility.
The Allure of Mercury Glass
What is it exactly that makes mercury glass so irresistible for today’s designers and homeowners? Here are some of the top reasons this reflective material is having another big moment:
- Nostalgic and elegant – With its nod to earlier eras, mercury glass immediately creates a sense of refined nostalgia in modern interiors. The antique vibe makes it a graceful, sophisticated design choice.
- Versatile applications – From lighting to vases to decorative bowls, mercury glass items can serve and accent virtually any room. Its silvery sheen looks stunning displayed on open shelving.
- Light amplification – When coupled with candlelight or string lights, mercury glass creates beautiful ambiance. The reflective surface magnifies and scatters light in an eye-catching way.
- On trend – After years out of vogue, the floating mercury look is back and better than ever. Mercury glass fits nicely with the modern farmhouse trend as well as neo-Victorian style.
- Budget friendly – While antique mercury glass can be pricey, newer mass-produced pieces are very affordable. This allows for gorgeous mercury glass style on a budget.
- Easy to incorporate – Small touches of mercury glass make a big visual impact. Use it sparsely or go all in – either approach allows you to seamlessly work it into your existing aesthetic.
With so many decor possibilities, it’s easy to see why mercury glass is poised to stick around awhile. Keep reading for inspiring ways to incorporate mercury glass items throughout your home.
Decorating with Mercury Glass: Tips and Ideas
The reflective versatility of mercury glass makes a stunning addition to decor schemes of all kinds. From traditional to modern spaces, mercury glass adds a textured metallic touch that elevates the look instantly.
Here are some top tips for decorating with mercury glass:
Light it up – Embrace the light-amplifying nature of mercury glass by placing it near light sources. Arrange mercury glass vases or candleholders on mantels, cabinets, entry tables, and shelves where it can pick up the flicker of candles and lamps.
Group for impact – Collections of varying mercury glass objects make for an impressive display. Try gathering mercury glass pieces like canisters, photo frames, and vases together on open shelves or a sideboard. Repeat mercury glass accents throughout for a cohesive look.
Mix and match – For lots of lovely contrast, combine mercury glass with more rustic elements like wood tones, linen textures, or reclaimed finishes. Mercury glass also pairs elegantly with marble, gold accents, black metals, and lucite.
Go subtle – One of the beauties of mercury glass is that it doesn’t take much to make a statement. Add pops of mercury glass through details like a table lamp base or a trio of votive holders.
Show off shapes – The rounded shapes and ornate edging on many mercury glass pieces beg to be displayed prominently. Place mercury glass vases, bowls, and candle holders on manels and table tops where their forms can shine.
For even more specific and creative ways to work mercury glass into your home, consider the following:
Entryways
Welcome guests with light-reflecting style by placing mercury glass accessories in your entry. Try a hanging orb pendant light or sconces with mercury glass bases over a small entry table topped with a mercury glass tray.
Kitchens
Add a taste of timeless style to modern kitchens with mercury glass pieces mixed in among contemporary finishes and appliances. Try open shelving styled with mercury glass canisters, or display a set of mercury glass cloche domes covering cake stands.
Dining Rooms
Formal dining rooms provide the perfect backdrop for showing off stunning antique-style mercury glass. Design a dramatic tablescape using multiple mercury glass vessels like cake stands, vases, and bowls. Or fill a hutch with mercury glass for soft and reflective storage.
Bathrooms
The wet environment of baths pairs perfectly with the sleek shine of mercury glass. Use mercury glass canisters and trays for bath storage. Hang mercury glass pendant lights or sconces for bathing in beautiful reflected glow.
Bedrooms
Incorporate mercury glass lamps, candle holders, trays, and trinket boxes in bedrooms for a glamorous vintage vibe. Pair mercury glass with romantic fabrics like silks and velvets for a luxe sleeping space.
Living Rooms
Living rooms both formal and casual provide a great opportunity to showcase mercury glass collections. Play with different heights, shapes and sizes – try mercury glass lanterns on the mantle and mercury glass obelisks on side tables.
Home Offices
Add inspiration to your workspace with mercury glass desk accessories and organizational items. Display your favorite photos in mercury glass frames. Use mercury glass vessels to stylishly hold office supplies.
Shelving
There may be no better way to display a mercury glass collection than on open glass shelving. This allows the light to shine through mercury glass pieces creating a striking floating effect.
Windows
Hang mercury glass prism sun catchers in windows to scatter rainbow shards of light around the room when the sun hits them just right. Affix window clings with mercury glass design accents for reflective whimsy.
The possibilities for creatively working mercury glass into home decor are endless. Any space can benefit from a touch of its unique radiance. Keep these tips in mind as you explore ways to bring more mercury glass style into your home design.
Where to Buy Mercury Glass Decor
Thankfully, the revival of mercury glass popularity has made it widely available once again from a variety of retailers. Here are some top options for buying new and antique-style mercury glass:
- Craft and antique stores – Scour local antique shops and craft stores for vintage finds and handmade mercury glass pieces with an authentic look. These provide unique decorative additions.
- Big box stores – Major home goods stores like Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods, and At Home carry affordable mass-produced mercury glass in forms ranging from tableware to accent decor.
- Online – Etsy, Wayfair, Overstock, and West Elm offer a wide selection of mercury glass pieces to suit any budget. Read item descriptions and reviews to assess quality.
- Thrift stores – Check thrift stores frequently for great deals on previously-owned mercury glass decor rescued and repurposed from estate sales, attics, and garage sales.
- Seasonal retailers – Stores like Home Depot and Michaels stock mercury glass items seasonally in winter months when they’re popular for holiday decor.
When possible, invest in mercury glass pieces made from thicker, high quality glass for durability and authentic aesthetics. As you decorate with mercury glass, display it safely to prevent damage and make sure it brings you joy!
DIY Mercury Glass Projects
If you want to get even more creative with the look of mercury glass, there are plenty of ways to DIY your own mercury glass decor at home. Here are some simple projects to try:
Spray paint mason jars – Clean and dry empty mason jars thoroughly. Apply several even coats of Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect spray paint to the exterior surface. Top with a clear acrylic sealer for added shine and protection. Voila – custom mercury glass vases and candle holders!
Use glass paint – Transform clear glass tableware and accessories into mercury glass with the help of glass paint like Krylon Looking Glass paint. Follow all preparation and application instructions carefully. Top with a sealant once fully cured. Glass paint opens many DIY possibilities!
Create framed art – Print and frame your favorite art or inspiring quotes in custom mercury glass frames. Remove the back of the frame, coat with silver spray paint or glass paint, then reassemble and insert your image. Stunning!
Embellish candleholders – Upgrade plain glass candle vessels by coating the inner surface surrounding the wick with silver glass paint. Try coating the bottom for a partial mirror effect. Add extra interest by paint-dipping the edges.
Serve holiday cocktails – For festive gatherings, embellish clear glass drink dispensers and barware with temporary silver window films cut into fun shapes and patterns. Remove easily after use for quick mercury glass style.
With the right paints and sealants, glass surfaces of all kinds can be DIY-ed into mercury glass masterpieces. Get creative with these transformation techniques for home accents that are uniquely you.
Mercury Glass Adds Timeless Intrigue
With its beautifully muted metallic shine and intimate connection to late 19th century style, it’s no wonder why mercury glass continues to entrance design lovers today. The light-reflecting, vintage-inspired material brings rich visual interest and antiqued allure to any space.
Whether you incorporate mercury glass into your home decor through store-bought accent pieces, repurposed flea market finds, or DIY glass transformations, the possibilities are truly endless. Let mercury glass transport your rooms to an earlier era while still looking fantastic within modern and contemporary spaces. Just a touch of its magical mirrored elegance enlivens any decor scheme.
FAQ About Mercury Glass Decor
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about mercury glass decor:
How is mercury glass made?
Mercury glass gets its reflective metallic finish from a process called “silvering”, which coats the reverse side of glass with a silver/tin solution. Adding this thin reflective backing transforms ordinary glass into stunning antiqued looking mercury glass.
Does it contain real mercury?
No, true mercury glass contains no actual mercury. The name comes from its resemblance to the look of liquid mercury. Various metal coatings applied by artisans create the realistic silvery illusion.
How do you clean mercury glass?
Use mild dish soap and water, wiping gently with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers. Vinegar diluted with water also works to break up hard water stains. Dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
Can you put mercury glass in the dishwasher?
It’s best to hand wash mercury glass to preserve its special finish. The hot waters and abrasive cycle of dishwashers can slowly strip and scratch the silvered surface over time.
Is mercury glass fragile?
Many mercury glass pieces are made from medium to thick glass, making them fairly durable. However, the glass can still break if dropped or struck hard, so handle with reasonable care. Deeper antique dishware may require extra caution.
Can you drink from mercury glass?
In general, yes – mercury glass cup, tumblers, and goblets are considered food-safe and fine for serving drinks. Avoid drinking highly acidic beverages over extended periods, as this could slowly erode some finishes.
Does mercury glass go out of style?
While popularity has waxed and waned, mercury glass has endured for over 150 years thanks to its classic versatile look. Mercury glass fits right in with several current home decor trends, so it should maintain appeal into the future.
Is mercury glass expensive?
Costs range widely. Mass produced pieces tend to cost around $10-$50. Larger statement-making or antique pieces reach into the hundreds. Building a collection over time helps gradually acquire stunning mercury glass at reasonable prices.
Can you paint mason jars to look like mercury glass?
Yes! Spray painting or brushing on glass paint allows DIY transformation of ordinary glass into custom faux mercury glass. Use gloss silver/chrome paints and seal for added shine and a convincingly metallic finish.
Conclusion
Mercury glass offers timeless beauty, versatility, and ample creative decor potential. With its dreamy antiqued silver aesthetic and ability to beautifully reflect and amplify light, mercury glass makes an elegant addition to any room. Collections grouped en masse or sparse subtle accents have visual impact. Vintage finds, affordable pieces, and handmade transformations allow you to attain the look you love and make it distinctly your own. However you choose to incorporate it, mercury glass is sure to enhance your space with its magical throwback radiance.
