With delicate etching, iridescent finishes, and unique shapes, vintage glassware can be nothing short of magical. Whether you’re scouring antique markets or sifting through a grandparent’s china cabinet, it’s easy to fall for the charm of Depression glass, midcentury cocktail sets, or art deco tumblers, but as with many vintage finds, beauty and safety don’t always go hand in hand. Before you bring those gorgeous pieces into regular use at home, read on to learn what’s in your vintage glassware—and whether it belongs in your guests’ hands or simply on display.

Why Vintage & Antique Glassware May Raise Safety Questions

Many of the materials used to create vintage glassware are no longer considered safe by today’s standards. Lead, for instance, was commonly used in crystal glass to create that unmistakable sparkle and satisfying weight. Cadmium—a heavy metal associated with the vibrant pigments used to achieve certain colors—often contributed to the striking reds, oranges, and yellows found in midcentury or Depression-era designs.

While these substances gave vintage glassware its signature aesthetic and enduring appeal, they also carry risks. We now know that both lead and cadmium can leach into food or beverages under certain conditions, particularly when acidic liquids are involved or when pieces show signs of wear. Though they will always be stunning, what once felt elegant and indulgent may now call for a more cautious approach.

Clues Your Glassware Could Contain Lead or Cadmium

Most vintage glassware lacks detailed labeling, especially if it was handmade or imported before safety regulations became standard. Still, certain clues can help guide your decision-making. Ultra-clear, resonant crystal often contains lead, particularly if it predates the 1980s. Bold, opaque reds and yellows in older pieces may hint at cadmium-based pigments.

That said, there’s no failproof way to tell by sight alone. Some collectors turn to at-home test kits, which can detect surface lead, though these tests aren’t always comprehensive or precise. When in doubt, it’s often safest to treat older glassware as decorative—or reserve it for moments that are more about atmosphere than practicality.

So, Is It Safe to Drink From?

Whether serving drinks from beautiful vintage glassware is safe depends on how you use it. For occasional toasts or a short pour of something mild, vintage glassware may pose little cause for concern. It’s extended exposure—think storing liquids in vintage decanters or using these pieces daily—that increases potential risk. Time, acidity, and wear all affect how materials interact with what they’re holding.

Even a flawless-looking glass can gradually lose its protective glaze over decades, particularly if it’s been run through a dishwasher or subjected to heavy use. In some cases, the damage isn’t visible—but that doesn’t mean the risk isn’t there. For the best experience using antique glassware, consult experts before using.

How to Enjoy Vintage Glassware Safely

If you’re already in love with your collection, the good news is that you don’t have to retire it completely. Many vintage pieces might no longer be functional, but they are just as valuable as decor. Whether styled on open shelves, used as floral vessels, or integrated into a bar setup, these pieces can elevate any interior. Others can still make appearances at the table, so long as you use them thoughtfully.

Stick to dry snacks, quick pours, or non-acidic drinks when possible. Avoid heating, soaking, or running pieces through the dishwasher. And if you have children in the home—or guests who are pregnant or immunocompromised—it may be wise to keep older pieces out of regular rotation.

Our Favorite Modern Alternatives to Antique Glassware

If you’re drawn to antique glassware but are hesitant about safety, there are plenty of contemporary collections that deliver both old-world style and peace of mind. Today’s designers are drawing on the silhouettes, textures, and colors of antique glass but reimagining them in lead-free materials that are both food-safe and functional for everyday use. Each of the following collections proves that you don’t have to sacrifice beauty for safety—or vice versa.

Ferm Living’s Host Liqueur Glasses

Take Ferm Living’s Host Liqueur Glasses in moss green. With their tall stems and sculptural, minimal lines, they strike a beautiful balance between classic elegance and Scandinavian restraint. These glasses are delicately mouth-blown, which gives each one subtle nuance and individuality, but their clean silhouettes make them ideal for a curated modern table. Available in a range of colors, they feel right at home whether you’re hosting a candlelit dinner or pouring an aperitif for one.

Arhaus’s Paloma Double Old-Fashioned Glasses

For something earthier and more organic, select Arhaus’s Paloma Double Old-Fashioned Glasses. Handblown in Mexico from recycled glass, they embrace the imperfections that make vintage pieces so charming—tiny air bubbles, softly irregular shapes—but with the reassurance of contemporary safety standards. The smoky gray coloring and squared edges beautifully suit everyday tablescapes.

Anthropologie’s Sinna Wine Glasses

If you’re after something more ornate, the Sinna Wine Glasses from Anthropologie capture the delicacy of antique etched glassware, complete with sandblasted motifs and a 24k gold rim. Each one is mouth-blown and slightly unique, much like a true antique find.

They’re not meant for the dishwasher or microwave, but they more than make up for it in style. These are statement pieces designed to elevate a special occasion—and echo the look of heirloom glassware without the unknowns.

Noon & Moon’s Lavender Coupe Cocktail Glasses

For more whimsy and color, the Lavender Coupe Cocktail Glasses by Noon & Moon are gorgeous. The soft purple hue and sweeping curves are refined yet playful, while the lead-free crystal construction keeps things practical. Available in three shapes—martini, coupe, and aperitif—this set feels like a curated collection of vintage glassware from a European flea market that was reinterpreted through a modern lens.

Ghia’s Totem Glasses

Design lovers will appreciate the bold silhouettes of Ghia’s Totem Glasses, which were created in collaboration with Sophie Lou Jacobsen. Inspired by postmodern design and handblown for individuality, they’re playful yet architectural—perfect for those who want their glassware to double as art. Their vibrant colors and stacked shapes add visual drama to any setting, whether you’re sipping cocktails or simply leaving them out on display.

Fferone’s Flight Champagne Flutes

For a more minimalist expression, consider the Flight Champagne Flutes by Fferrone pictured above. Inspired by Chicago’s mid-century architecture, these borosilicate glass flutes are fluted, lightweight, and durable—perfectly suited to everything from brunch mimosas to celebratory toasts. Unlike most vintage crystal, they’re dishwasher, oven, and microwave-safe, which makes them as functional as they are beautiful.