Falling in Love with Jadeite: A Collector’s Story
We first featured this story in a past issue of Front Porch Life magazine when we interviewed Courtney Vettel about her extensive jadeite collection. Her love for this vintage glass has grown into a passion that many collectors can relate to, especially those just starting out on their own collecting journey. In this article, you’ll find inspiration from her collection along with insights into why jadeite remains one of the most beloved collectibles today.
What is Jadeite, and what inspired you to start collecting it?
Jadeite was made by three different American companies at the height of its popularity, beginning in the Depression era. It is an opaque, milky green glass that was produced by the Jeanette, McKee, and Anchor Hocking companies. These companies created kitchenware in a pale green color, one that mimics jade stone. I fell in love with jadeite when I was a young girl watching the Martha Stewart Show. I knew that someday I had to have a white kitchen full of that glorious green jadeite glassware.
When you first started collecting, how did you decide which pieces to focus on?
When I first began collecting, it was really about what I could afford. I started collecting when I was 16 years old, so I began with any pieces I could find at garage sales or thrift stores. Fireking jadeite is more commonly found and less expensive, so much of my collection started with Fireking jadeite pieces. My first piece was a basic vintage batter bowl, and I loved it and still do. So, I have been collecting for over 20 years, and my collection has grown immensely over the years. It has evolved to the point where I now only hunt for very rare pieces or those that I don’t currently have in my collection.
Is there a particular piece in your collection with special significance or a unique story behind it?
One of the most coveted jadeite pieces is the Jeanette Salt Box with its original lid. I saw one on a Facebook group post at an antique store, and I was sitting on the beach with my family. I ran back to the beach rental we were staying at, tracked down the antique store, and paid for it over the phone. It was at my doorstep when we returned home from vacation. In the past 10 years, it has quadrupled in value.
What brings you the most joy or fulfillment from curating and expanding your collection?
I love to incorporate my jadeite into almost every décor display that I curate. If it’s seasonal or just basic farmhouse décor, jadeite blends so seamlessly. Its color is captivating, and one of my favorite aspects of jadeite is its versatility. I love the history and character that it adds to spaces, too.
👉Interested in starting your own collection? Subscribe today to read the remainder of this interview from our Winter 2024 issue. When you subscribe, you receive access to our past issues. Start reading immediately!
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