Educated Shopper: Flea-Market Smarts

Mercury Magic

Antique mercury glass is hard to find in perfect condition, says veteran flea market shopper Barbara Evans. Authentic mercury glass is significantly lighter and will have a stopper in the base to hold the mercury inside (Mercury was originally poured between two layers of clear glass).

When shopping for mercury glass, you will find reproductions in styles that did exist with authentic pieces, and because original mercury glass is rare and can be expensive, incorporate a few reproductions with two or three real pieces for a stunning display.