What is mercury glass?

Mercury glass, also known as silvered glass or faux mercury glass, is a type of glass that has a silver or metallic appearance. It is achieved by coating the glass with a silver or mercury solution, followed by a chemical process to create a reflective surface.

Mercury glass was first produced in the early 19th century in Germany, but became popular in England and America during the Victorian era. It was used for decorative items such as mirrors, vases, candle holders, and Christmas ornaments.

Today, mercury glass is often used for vintage-style home decor and is a popular choice for holiday decorations. It adds a touch of elegance and glamour to any space, and can be found in a variety of colors and finishes, from antiqued silver to gold to copper.

While traditional mercury glass contains actual mercury, modern versions use safer materials such as silver nitrate or aluminum. These newer versions still achieve the same reflective look, but without the health risks associated with mercury.