Stemmed Crystal Champagne Flute With Twisted Baluster Stem Appraisal

Stemmed Crystal Champagne Flute with Twisted Baluster Stem

This item is a tall, elegant champagne flute crafted from clear glass, likely lead crystal given the clarity and light refraction visible in the stem. The piece features a classic elongated tulip-shaped bowl designed to retain carbonation. The most distinguishing characteristic is the ornate stem, which incorporates a multi-tiered baluster design featuring a prominent central twist or rope-molding element, sandwiched between two rounded knops. This decorative stem transitions into a wide, circular flat base that provides stability. In terms of construction, the piece appears to be mold-blown or machine-made rather than hand-blown, indicated by the uniformity of the glass thickness and the precise symmetry of the decorative stem elements. The glass is colorless and transparent, free from etched patterns or gilding. Regarding condition, the flute shows signs of light use; there is visible clouding or a 'bloom' on the base, which may indicate hard water deposits or early stages of glass sickness (crizzling) if not properly cleaned. No significant chips, cracks, or deep scratches are immediately apparent on the bowl or rim. The style is reminiscent of late 20th-century formal stemware, common in bridal registries and fine dining sets from the 1980s or 1990s. While no maker's mark is visible through the base in the photograph, the quality suggests a reputable mass-market glass manufacturer.