Mikasa Holiday Christmas Tree Etched Crystal Trumpet Vase

This is a tall, elegant trumpet-style vase crafted from high-quality clear lead crystal by Mikasa. The piece features a gracefully flared rim accented with a thin, continuous gold gilded band. The body of the vase is decorated with a frosted, wheel-etched design depicting a stylized Christmas tree, complete with sweeping boughs and scattered star or snowflake accents. The construction includes a narrow, cinched waist that transitions into a short stem and a wide, stable circular foot. This foot still retains a silver-toned rectangular manufacturer's sticker, indicating the piece is in likely unused or excellent vintage condition. The crystal exhibits high clarity and light refraction typical of Mikasa glassware from the late 20th century. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the gold rim, and the frosting of the etched pattern remains crisp and uniform throughout. The style is contemporary festive, likely dating from the 1990s to early 2000s, reflecting high-end holiday tabletop decor craftsmanship.

I have virtually examined this Mikasa Holiday Christmas Tree Trumpet Vase. The piece exhibits characteristic hallmarks of Mikasa's holiday production from the 1990s, notably the 'Highland' or 'Spirit of Christmas' style motifs. The gold-gilded rim appears intact without the common thinning or loss associated with improper cleaning, and the presence of the original manufacturer's sticker strongly suggests a 'New Old Stock' or 'Cabinet Piece' status, indicating minimal to no use. The crystal clarity remains high, with no evidence of 'clouding' or dishwasher damage. Market conditions for mass-produced holiday crystal remain stable but saturated. While Mikasa is a respected name, these items were produced in large quantities for the retail market, which limits rarity. Comparables on the secondary market for similar 9-12 inch trumpet vases frequently fall within the $35 to $75 range depending on the specific pattern and original packaging presence. The gold rim provides a slight premium over the purely clear versions. Limitations: This appraisal is based on photographic evidence. A physical inspection would be required to rule out micro-chips along the circular foot's edge and to verify the lead content through resonance or weight. For definitive authentication of the gilding, a tactile inspection for 'wear-through' patterns is necessary. No scientific testing was conducted; market value is based on aesthetic condition and brand identification.