Edinburgh Crystal 'Star of Edinburgh' Small Goblet/Wine Glass

This is a classic small goblet or wine glass produced by Edinburgh Crystal, specifically featuring the iconic 'Star of Edinburgh' cut pattern. The item is crafted from high-quality lead crystal, known for its exceptional clarity and heavy, substantial feel. The design features a bowl with deep, vertical wedge cuts that taper into sharp points, accented by smaller thumbprint or 'lens' cuts near the base of the bowl, creating a shimmering light-refraction effect typical of hand-cut crystal. The stem is faceted and multi-sided, providing both aesthetic appeal and a secure grip, leading down to a simple, plain circular foot. The glass appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or clouding (sickness) throughout the body. The edges of the cuts remain crisp and well-defined, indicating minimal wear from handling or washing. Based on the pattern and construction, this piece likely dates from the mid-to-late 20th century (circa 1960s-1980s). While no maker's mark is visible in the photograph, Edinburgh Crystal pieces from this era were frequently etched with an acid-stamped 'Edinburgh' signature on the underside of the base. The weight and refractive fire of the glass serve as indicators of premium craftsmanship from the Scottish glassmaking tradition.

I have examined the digital representations of this Edinburgh Crystal 'Star of Edinburgh' small goblet. The piece displays the characteristic hallmarks of the pattern, including the intricate hand-cut starbursts and wedge cuts that define the line. My visual inspection indicates the glass is in excellent condition; the absence of clouding or 'glass sickness' is a vital factor in maintaining its value. The facets on the stem and the clarity of the lead crystal suggest a high-quality manufacture typical of the mid-20th-century Scottish tradition. The 'Star of Edinburgh' remains the most recognizable and collected pattern from this defunct manufacturer (factory closed in 2006). Current market conditions for vintage crystal are stable, though secondary market prices are significantly lower than original retail values due to a shift in modern lifestyle trends. Comparable sales for individual small goblets (typically used for white wine or port) consistently fall in the $45 to $65 range. Large sets tend to command a premium, whereas single replacements serve a specific 'fill-in' market. Several limitations exist in this remote appraisal. While the cutting style is consistent with Edinburgh Crystal, definitive authentication requires a physical inspection to locate the acid-etched mark on the base, which is often faint. I cannot verify the presence of 'flea bites' or internal stress fractures from images alone. A full valuation would also require precise measurements to distinguish between the various sizes of wine and water goblets produced in this suite. For insurance purposes, provenance or original branded packaging would further support the item's valuation.