The Next Phase

• In the late 1700's, Bohemian glass maker Friedrich Egermann developed a process for producing ruby glass using copper instead of gold. This made the large scale production of affordable ruby glass possible.
  
  

Methods

• Some ruby glass was produced by the addition of metals in the glass-making process itself. Other glass was stained to produce the red color, which was then fused to the glass with high heat.
  
  

Embellishment

• Glass cutters were then able to create intricate clear glass patterns by carving into the stained layer. Ruby and other colored glassware were also embellished by adding silver and other metal overlays, as well as enamel paints.
  
  

The Victorian Era

• Ruby glass continued in popularity during the 19th century. Producers like James Powell and Sons created elaborate pieces of ruby-layered glass. More delicate etched patterns became more fashionable than heavily cut glass during that period as well.
  
  

Modern Ruby Glass

• In 1937, the Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation patented a heat-proof version of ruby glass, which they named Royal Ruby. This glass quickly became popular and, partly because of its durability, much of it survives today in forms such as vases, punch bowl and cup sets, ashtrays, plates, compotes, and more. For a short time, Anchor Hocking even produced Royal Ruby beer bottles for the Schlitz Brewery. These and all ruby glass remain highly collectible today.