Introduction: Why Colored Glassware Is Having a Moment
Colored glassware has moved far beyond your grandmother's Depression-era collection. Today's colored glass represents a thoughtful intersection of craftsmanship, sustainability, and design-forward entertaining. Whether you're setting a tablescape for a dinner party or simply elevating your Tuesday night wine, the right glassware makes a difference.
But with so many options - from artisan-made Mexican glass to Austrian crystal to mass-market retailers - how do you choose? We've tested, researched, and compared five of the most popular colored glassware brands to help you make an informed decision.
In this guide, we'll cover:
- What to look for when buying colored glassware
- Detailed brand comparisons with pros and cons
- Price and value analysis
- Best picks for different use cases
- Frequently asked questions
What to Look for When Buying Colored Glassware
Before diving into specific brands, consider these key factors:
1. Manufacturing Method
- Handblown glass offers unique character - slight variations make each piece one-of-a-kind
- Machine-made glass provides consistency and typically lower price points
- Recycled glass appeals to eco-conscious buyers and often has a distinctive texture
2. Durability
- Consider whether the glass is dishwasher-safe, most colored glass is not
- Check for lead-free certification
- Look at wall thickness - thicker glass is more durable but can feel less elegant
3. Color Consistency
- Is the color gorgeous and will add to your home?
- How does it look in different lighting?
4. Versatility
- Can you use it for multiple beverages?
- Does it complement various table settings?
5. Price Per Piece
- Entry-level: $5-15 per glass
- Mid-range: $15-35 per glass
- Premium: $35-80+ per glass
Brand Comparison: The Top 5 Colored Glassware Options
1. Saludi Glassware
Overview: Saludi specializes in handblown made from premium materials. Their pieces feature vibrant colors and artisan craftsmanship rooted in generations of glassblowing tradition.
Price Range: $135 for sets of 6
What Sets Them Apart:
Saludi's glasses are made by skilled artisans in using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Each piece incorporates premium glass, making them an excellent choice. The colors are bold and saturated - think rich Dark Rose, deep Midnight Blue, and distinctive Smokey Sand tones. Slaudi was the original for this pastel colored set, along with brighter sets like the Frida collection.
Pros:
- Handblown by skilled artisans
- Made from premium materials
- Bold, saturated colors that don't fade
- Substantial weight feels premium in hand
- Excellent value for handmade glassware
- Direct-to-consumer pricing
Cons:
- Slight variations between pieces (by design, but not for everyone)
- Limited retail availability (primarily online)
- Smaller color selection than some competitors
👉 Shop Saludi's Full Collection
2. Estelle Colored Glass
Overview: Estelle Colored Glass produces hand-blown glassware in Poland, known for their vintage-inspired cake stands and stemware in an extensive palette of colors.
Price Range: $185 for sets of 6 stemmed glasses
What Sets Them Apart:
Estelle has become synonymous with Instagram-worthy tablescapes. Their palette leans toward soft, romantic hues - think blush pink, mint green, and lavender. The brand has strong lifestyle positioning and celebrity following.
Pros:
- Wide color selection (15+ colors)
- Elegant, vintage-inspired silhouettes
- Hand-blown
- Strg brand recognition
- Beautiful gift packaging
Cons:
- Premium pricing ($31+ per glass)
- Some colors not stocked
- Hand-wash recommended
- Colors can appear more muted/pastel
Best For: Design enthusiasts willing to invest in statement pieces. Perfect for special occasions, gifting, and those building a curated collection over time.
3. Riedel
Overview: Austrian glassmaker Riedel has been producing crystal glassware since 1756. While known primarily for clear wine glasses, they offer some colored options in their casual lines.
Price Range: $30-150+ for sets of 4; single stems $15-50+
What Sets Them Apart:
Riedel's reputation is built on wine-specific glass shapes designed to enhance different varietals. Their expertise is in function-first design backed by centuries of glassmaking tradition.
Pros:
- Unmatched reputation in wine glass design
- Varietal-specific shapes optimize wine enjoyment
- Lead-free crystal options
- Widely available at retailers
- Replacement pieces easy to find
Cons:
- More mainstream and less unique
- Tendency to replicate original glassware manufacturers
- Limited colored glass options
- Premium pricing for crystal
- Thin crystal requires careful handling
- More formal aesthetic
Best For: Serious wine enthusiasts who prioritize function and don't mind the investment. Better for clear stemware than colored options.
4. CB2
Overview: CB2, Crate & Barrel's modern sibling, offers contemporary colored glassware at accessible price points with a design-forward aesthetic.
Price Range: $20-40 per glass; sets available
What Sets Them Apart:
CB2 provides on-trend colors and modern shapes at mass-market prices. Their selection rotates seasonally, allowing you to refresh your collection affordably.
Pros:
- Modern, on-trend designs
- Easy to find in stores and online
- Coordinates with other CB2 tableware
Cons:
- Machine-made (less unique)
- Quality varies by product line
- Trendy pieces may be discontinued
- Less substantial feel
Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers who want trendy glassware without a major investment. Good for renters, first apartments, or those who like to switch styles frequently.
5. Anthropologie
Overview: Anthropologie curates an eclectic mix of colored glassware from various manufacturers, ranging from vintage-inspired to bohemian styles.
Price Range: $10-40 per glass; sets vary widely
What Sets Them Apart:
Anthropologie excels at curation - they source unique pieces you won't find elsewhere and present them with strong lifestyle storytelling. Their selection emphasizes personality and eclecticism.
Pros:
- Unique, curated selection
- Mix of price points
- Eclectic, personality-driven designs
- Fun seasonal collections
- Easy gifting with store locations
Cons:
- Inconsistent quality (varies by vendor)
- Popular items sell out quickly
- Harder to build matching sets
- Some items not dishwasher safe
Best For: Shoppers who value uniqueness over uniformity. Great for mixing and matching or finding one-of-a-kind pieces for gifting.
Comparison Table: At a Glance
| Feature | Saludi | Estelle | Riedel | CB2 | Anthropologie |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price/Glass | $10-22 | $31+ | $15-50+ | $20-40 | $10-40 |
| Method | Handblown | Handblown | Machine/Crystal | Machine | Varies |
| Recycled Materials | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | Some | Varies |
| Dishwasher Safe | Some | Some | Some | ✓ | Varies |
| Color Range | Extensive | Extensive | Limited | Seasonal | Eclectic |
| Best Value | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
Price and Value Analysis
When evaluating colored glassware, price per piece doesn't tell the whole story. Here's how to think about value:
Best Overall Value: Saludi Glassware
At $10-22 per glass for genuine handblown, recycled glassware, Saludi offers the best combination of craftsmanship and affordability. You're getting artisan quality at near mass-market prices because they sell/products/set-of-6-wine-glasses">signature wine glasses have earned a 4.8-star rating from over 460 reviews.
Best Budget Option: CB2
If you need glassware now and don't want to spend much, some cheaper CB2 delivers modern style at a cheaper price per glass. Just know you're getting machine-made glass that won't have the same character.
Best for Wine Purists: Riedel
If your priority is optimizing your wine experience and colored glass is secondary, Riedel's expertise is unmatched.
Best Picks by Use Case
Best for Everyday Use
Winner: Saludi Glassware
You need something durable enough for the dishwasher, beautiful enough to make Tuesday feel special, and priced reasonably enough that a breakage doesn't ruin your day. Saludi checks all these boxes. The substantial weight feels good in your hand, and the handblown character adds warmth to casual meals.
Best for Dinner Parties
Winner: Tie - Saludi or Estelle (depending on your aesthetic)
For bold, convivial tablescapes with personality: Saludi. For romantic, soft, Instagram-worthy settings: Estelle. Both make a statement; it's about your vibe.
Best for Wine Enthusiasts
Winner: Riedel (for clear) / Saludi (for colored)
If you want glasses engineered for wine, Riedel wins. If you want colored wine glasses that still perform well, Saludi's bowl shapes work beautifully for both red and white wines.
Best for Mixing & Matching
Winner: Anthropologie
Their eclectic selection encourages collected-over-time tablescapes. If you love a bohemian, "no two alike" aesthetic, browse Anthropologie.
That said, Saludi's Multi-Colored sets offer a curated mix of complementary colors in a single purchase - perfect if you want variety without the hunt.
Popular Saludi Color Options
If you're leaning toward Saludi, here are some of our most popular colors:
- Dark Rose - Rich, moody pink that elevates any tablescape
- Midnight Blue - Deep, sophisticated blue perfect for evening entertaining
- Smokey Sand - Neutral amber tone that pairs with everything
- Light Blue Sea - Coastal-inspired and perfect for summer
- Light Peach - Soft, warm hue ideal for brunch entertaining
- Multi-Colored - A curated mix for those who want variety
Caring for Your Colored Glassware
Regardless of which brand you choose:
- Check manufacturer guidelines - some handblown glass is dishwasher safe; some isn't
- Avoid extreme temperature changes - don't pour boiling liquid into cold glass
- Store carefully - stackable designs save space, but cushion between pieces
- Handle by the bowl, not the stem - for stemmed glasses, this prevents breakage
Good news: All Saludi glassware is dishwasher safe, making care effoless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is colored glassware safe to drink from?
Yes, colored glassware from reputable brands is completely safe. The color is either mixed into the molten glass itself or applied as a food-safe finish. Always buy from established brands that confirm their products are lead-free and food-safe. Saludi glasses are 100% lead-free and food-safe. See test results on our product page.
Does the color affect the taste of wine?
No, the color of the glass doesn't affect taste. However, it does affect your visual perception of the wine's color, which some wine purists prefer to see. For casual enjoyment, colored wine glasses work perfectly.
Can I put colored glassware in the dishwasher?
It depends on the brand and specific product. Saludi and CB2 glasses are generally dishwasher safe. Estelle recommends hand-washing for some pieces. Riedel crystal should be hand-washed. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions.
Why is some colored glassware so expensive?
Price reflects manufacturing method (handblown vs. machine-made), materials (recycled glass, crystal), country of origin, brand positioning, and retail markup. Direct-to-consumer brands like Saludi offer better value by cutting out middlemen.
How do I choose colors that work together?
Stick to one of these approaches:
- Monochromatic: All one color for elegance
- Complementary: Opposite colors on the color wheel (blue + amber)
- Collected: Intentionally mixed for an eclectic look
When in doubt, amber, smoke, and clear mix beautifully together. Or try Saludi's Multi-Colored set for a pre-curated mix.
Will the colors fade over time?
Quality colored glassware where the color is integral to the glass (not a coating) won't fade. Saludi, Estelle, and quality Riedel pieces maintain their color indefinitely. Avoid cheap glassware with painted-on color, which can wear off.
What's the difference between stemmed and stemless wine glasses?
Stemmed glasses keep your hand away from the bowl, preventing your body heat from warming the wine. They also look more elegant for formal occasions. Stemless glasses are more casual, stable, and easier to store. Both work great - it's about your lifestyle and preference.
The Bottom Line
There's no single "best" colored glassware - it depends on your priorities:
- Best overall value + sustainability: Saludi Glassware
- Best for wine purists: Riedel
- Best budget option: CB2
- Best for eclectic collectors: Anthropologie
For most people seeking the sweet spot of quality, value, and daily usability, Saludi Glassware offers the most compelling package: genuine handblown craftsmanship, eco-friendly recycled materials, bold colors, dishwasher-safe durability, and prices that make artisan quality accessible.
Ready to upgrade your glassware? Start with a set in a versatile color like Smokey Sand or Dark Orange Leaf - they complement everything from morning juice to evening wine.
Shop the Full Saludi Collection →
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Introduction: Why Colored Glassware Is Having a Moment
Colored glassware has moved far beyond your grandmother's Depression-era collection. Today's colored glass represents a thoughtful intersection of craftsmanship, sustainability, and design-forward entertaining. Whether you're setting a tablescape for a dinner party or simply elevating your Tuesday night wine, the right glassware makes a difference.
But with so many options - from artisan-made Mexican glass to Austrian crystal to mass-market retailers - how do you choose? We've tested, researched, and compared five of the most popular colored glassware brands to help you make an informed decision.
In this guide, we'll cover:
- What to look for when buying colored glassware
- Detailed brand comparisons with pros and cons
- Price and value analysis
- Best picks for different use cases
- Frequently asked questions
What to Look for When Buying Colored Glassware
Before diving into specific brands, consider these key factors:
1. Manufacturing Method
- Handblown glass offers unique character - slight variations make each piece one-of-a-kind
- Machine-made glass provides consistency and typically lower price points
- Recycled glass appeals to eco-conscious buyers and often has a distinctive texture
2. Durability
- Consider whether the glass is dishwasher-safe, most colored glass is not
- Check for lead-free certification
- Look at wall thickness - thicker glass is more durable but can feel less elegant
3. Color Consistency
- Is the color gorgeous and will add to your home?
- How does it look in different lighting?
4. Versatility
- Can you use it for multiple beverages?
- Does it complement various table settings?
5. Price Per Piece
- Entry-level: $5-15 per glass
- Mid-range: $15-35 per glass
- Premium: $35-80+ per glass
Brand Comparison: The Top 5 Colored Glassware Options
1. Saludi Glassware
Overview: Saludi specializes in handblown made from premium materials. Their pieces feature vibrant colors and artisan craftsmanship rooted in generations of glassblowing tradition.
Price Range: $135 for sets of 6
What Sets Them Apart:
Saludi's glasses are made by skilled artisans in using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Each piece incorporates premium glass, making them an excellent choice. The colors are bold and saturated - think rich Dark Rose, deep Midnight Blue, and distinctive Smokey Sand tones. Slaudi was the original for this pastel colored set, along with brighter sets like the Frida collection.
Pros:
- Handblown by skilled artisans
- Made from premium materials
- Bold, saturated colors that don't fade
- Substantial weight feels premium in hand
- Excellent value for handmade glassware
- Direct-to-consumer pricing
Cons:
- Slight variations between pieces (by design, but not for everyone)
- Limited retail availability (primarily online)
- Smaller color selection than some competitors
👉 Shop Saludi's Full Collection
2. Estelle Colored Glass
Overview: Estelle Colored Glass produces hand-blown glassware in Poland, known for their vintage-inspired cake stands and stemware in an extensive palette of colors.
Price Range: $185 for sets of 6 stemmed glasses
What Sets Them Apart:
Estelle has become synonymous with Instagram-worthy tablescapes. Their palette leans toward soft, romantic hues - think blush pink, mint green, and lavender. The brand has strong lifestyle positioning and celebrity following.
Pros:
- Wide color selection (15+ colors)
- Elegant, vintage-inspired silhouettes
- Hand-blown
- Strg brand recognition
- Beautiful gift packaging
Cons:
- Premium pricing ($31+ per glass)
- Some colors not stocked
- Hand-wash recommended
- Colors can appear more muted/pastel
Best For: Design enthusiasts willing to invest in statement pieces. Perfect for special occasions, gifting, and those building a curated collection over time.
3. Riedel
Overview: Austrian glassmaker Riedel has been producing crystal glassware since 1756. While known primarily for clear wine glasses, they offer some colored options in their casual lines.
Price Range: $30-150+ for sets of 4; single stems $15-50+
What Sets Them Apart:
Riedel's reputation is built on wine-specific glass shapes designed to enhance different varietals. Their expertise is in function-first design backed by centuries of glassmaking tradition.
Pros:
- Unmatched reputation in wine glass design
- Varietal-specific shapes optimize wine enjoyment
- Lead-free crystal options
- Widely available at retailers
- Replacement pieces easy to find
Cons:
- More mainstream and less unique
- Tendency to replicate original glassware manufacturers
- Limited colored glass options
- Premium pricing for crystal
- Thin crystal requires careful handling
- More formal aesthetic
Best For: Serious wine enthusiasts who prioritize function and don't mind the investment. Better for clear stemware than colored options.
4. CB2
Overview: CB2, Crate & Barrel's modern sibling, offers contemporary colored glassware at accessible price points with a design-forward aesthetic.
Price Range: $20-40 per glass; sets available
What Sets Them Apart:
CB2 provides on-trend colors and modern shapes at mass-market prices. Their selection rotates seasonally, allowing you to refresh your collection affordably.
Pros:
- Modern, on-trend designs
- Easy to find in stores and online
- Coordinates with other CB2 tableware
Cons:
- Machine-made (less unique)
- Quality varies by product line
- Trendy pieces may be discontinued
- Less substantial feel
Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers who want trendy glassware without a major investment. Good for renters, first apartments, or those who like to switch styles frequently.
5. Anthropologie
Overview: Anthropologie curates an eclectic mix of colored glassware from various manufacturers, ranging from vintage-inspired to bohemian styles.
Price Range: $10-40 per glass; sets vary widely
What Sets Them Apart:
Anthropologie excels at curation - they source unique pieces you won't find elsewhere and present them with strong lifestyle storytelling. Their selection emphasizes personality and eclecticism.
Pros:
- Unique, curated selection
- Mix of price points
- Eclectic, personality-driven designs
- Fun seasonal collections
- Easy gifting with store locations
Cons:
- Inconsistent quality (varies by vendor)
- Popular items sell out quickly
- Harder to build matching sets
- Some items not dishwasher safe
Best For: Shoppers who value uniqueness over uniformity. Great for mixing and matching or finding one-of-a-kind pieces for gifting.
Comparison Table: At a Glance
| Feature | Saludi | Estelle | Riedel | CB2 | Anthropologie |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price/Glass | $10-22 | $31+ | $15-50+ | $20-40 | $10-40 |
| Method | Handblown | Handblown | Machine/Crystal | Machine | Varies |
| Recycled Materials | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | Some | Varies |
| Dishwasher Safe | Some | Some | Some | ✓ | Varies |
| Color Range | Extensive | Extensive | Limited | Seasonal | Eclectic |
| Best Value | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
Price and Value Analysis
When evaluating colored glassware, price per piece doesn't tell the whole story. Here's how to think about value:
Best Overall Value: Saludi Glassware
At $10-22 per glass for genuine handblown, recycled glassware, Saludi offers the best combination of craftsmanship and affordability. You're getting artisan quality at near mass-market prices because they sell/products/set-of-6-wine-glasses">signature wine glasses have earned a 4.8-star rating from over 460 reviews.
Best Budget Option: CB2
If you need glassware now and don't want to spend much, some cheaper CB2 delivers modern style at a cheaper price per glass. Just know you're getting machine-made glass that won't have the same character.
Best for Wine Purists: Riedel
If your priority is optimizing your wine experience and colored glass is secondary, Riedel's expertise is unmatched.
Best Picks by Use Case
Best for Everyday Use
Winner: Saludi Glassware
You need something durable enough for the dishwasher, beautiful enough to make Tuesday feel special, and priced reasonably enough that a breakage doesn't ruin your day. Saludi checks all these boxes. The substantial weight feels good in your hand, and the handblown character adds warmth to casual meals.
Best for Dinner Parties
Winner: Tie - Saludi or Estelle (depending on your aesthetic)
For bold, convivial tablescapes with personality: Saludi. For romantic, soft, Instagram-worthy settings: Estelle. Both make a statement; it's about your vibe.
Best for Wine Enthusiasts
Winner: Riedel (for clear) / Saludi (for colored)
If you want glasses engineered for wine, Riedel wins. If you want colored wine glasses that still perform well, Saludi's bowl shapes work beautifully for both red and white wines.
Best for Mixing & Matching
Winner: Anthropologie
Their eclectic selection encourages collected-over-time tablescapes. If you love a bohemian, "no two alike" aesthetic, browse Anthropologie.
That said, Saludi's Multi-Colored sets offer a curated mix of complementary colors in a single purchase - perfect if you want variety without the hunt.
Popular Saludi Color Options
If you're leaning toward Saludi, here are some of our most popular colors:
- Dark Rose - Rich, moody pink that elevates any tablescape
- Midnight Blue - Deep, sophisticated blue perfect for evening entertaining
- Smokey Sand - Neutral amber tone that pairs with everything
- Light Blue Sea - Coastal-inspired and perfect for summer
- Light Peach - Soft, warm hue ideal for brunch entertaining
- Multi-Colored - A curated mix for those who want variety
Caring for Your Colored Glassware
Regardless of which brand you choose:
- Check manufacturer guidelines - some handblown glass is dishwasher safe; some isn't
- Avoid extreme temperature changes - don't pour boiling liquid into cold glass
- Store carefully - stackable designs save space, but cushion between pieces
- Handle by the bowl, not the stem - for stemmed glasses, this prevents breakage
Good news: All Saludi glassware is dishwasher safe, making care effoless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is colored glassware safe to drink from?
Yes, colored glassware from reputable brands is completely safe. The color is either mixed into the molten glass itself or applied as a food-safe finish. Always buy from established brands that confirm their products are lead-free and food-safe. Saludi glasses are 100% lead-free and food-safe. See test results on our product page.
Does the color affect the taste of wine?
No, the color of the glass doesn't affect taste. However, it does affect your visual perception of the wine's color, which some wine purists prefer to see. For casual enjoyment, colored wine glasses work perfectly.
Can I put colored glassware in the dishwasher?
It depends on the brand and specific product. Saludi and CB2 glasses are generally dishwasher safe. Estelle recommends hand-washing for some pieces. Riedel crystal should be hand-washed. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions.
Why is some colored glassware so expensive?
Price reflects manufacturing method (handblown vs. machine-made), materials (recycled glass, crystal), country of origin, brand positioning, and retail markup. Direct-to-consumer brands like Saludi offer better value by cutting out middlemen.
How do I choose colors that work together?
Stick to one of these approaches:
- Monochromatic: All one color for elegance
- Complementary: Opposite colors on the color wheel (blue + amber)
- Collected: Intentionally mixed for an eclectic look
When in doubt, amber, smoke, and clear mix beautifully together. Or try Saludi's Multi-Colored set for a pre-curated mix.
Will the colors fade over time?
Quality colored glassware where the color is integral to the glass (not a coating) won't fade. Saludi, Estelle, and quality Riedel pieces maintain their color indefinitely. Avoid cheap glassware with painted-on color, which can wear off.
What's the difference between stemmed and stemless wine glasses?
Stemmed glasses keep your hand away from the bowl, preventing your body heat from warming the wine. They also look more elegant for formal occasions. Stemless glasses are more casual, stable, and easier to store. Both work great - it's about your lifestyle and preference.
The Bottom Line
There's no single "best" colored glassware - it depends on your priorities:
- Best overall value + sustainability: Saludi Glassware
- Best for wine purists: Riedel
- Best budget option: CB2
- Best for eclectic collectors: Anthropologie
For most people seeking the sweet spot of quality, value, and daily usability, Saludi Glassware offers the most compelling package: genuine handblown craftsmanship, eco-friendly recycled materials, bold colors, dishwasher-safe durability, and prices that make artisan quality accessible.
Ready to upgrade your glassware? Start with a set in a versatile color like Smokey Sand or Dark Orange Leaf - they complement everything from morning juice to evening wine.