Glass and Crystal Condition Designation

Condition Designation Criteria for Glass and Crystal

EXCELLENT—Few or no marks and very little wear. No cracks, chips, or discoloration. Marks, emblems, and decoration are clear and sharp.
VERY GOOD—Few or no marks and very little wear. Marks, emblems, and decoration are visible, but may be faded. No cracks or chips, but surface may have some discoloration or scratches from use.
GOOD—Few marks, but some noticeable wear. Marks, emblems, and decoration are visible, but may be faded. May have a small imperfection, crack, or chip, but is otherwise fine. Surface may have some discoloration.
FAIR—Some or several marks and a fair amount of wear. Marks, emblems, and decoration may be barely visible, but can be discerned. May have a small crack or chip (or both), but not more than one of each. Surface may be discolored.
POOR—Some or many marks. May show much wear. Marks, emblems, or decoration may no longer be visible. May have multiple cracks and/or chips. Surface may be quite discolored and/or worn.

Some Important Notes on Condition
We use our experience and our eyes to designate the condition of each item. We probably err on the side of counting more flaws to ensure that our customers are getting the best value for their investment. With all due respect to others who offer ocean liner collectibles, it is simply not possible for every piece to be in excellent condition. Further, if an object has a flaw, this affects the condition of the entire piece. We do not believe it is fair or ethical to say that a piece is in excellent condition, except for a major flaw. If an object has a major flaw, it affects the condition of the entire object.

Some very desirable pieces of crystal or glass may only be available in a condition we designate as “fair” or “poor.” Since the price of an item in poor condition is less than for an object in excellent condition, the less expensive one is a way for some collectors to fill out their collections until they can afford one in better condition. If we are aware that an item has been repaired, we will say so in the description.