Want to try the tiny cocktail trend out at home? There is a treasure trove of vintage petite glassware and gorgeous shakers at thrift stores and antique shops. Some, of course, are crafted for aperitifs and digestifs. But interesting finds range from Art Deco-era crystal coupes to pistachio-green Depression-era uranium glasses.

I consulted with Elle Spurr, a researcher at Rau Antiques — an antiques, art and jewelry business headquartered in New Orleans with a gallery in Aspen.

Pre-World War II barware was notably smaller than modern glassware, which reflects cultural drinking habits and economic constraints of the time, Spurr said. “Cocktails were originally designed as quick, bracing aperitifs meant to be consumed in just a few ounces to stimulate the appetite rather than sipped leisurely.”

This is evident in the compact size of barware from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where standard cocktail glasses often held around 3 ounces. During Prohibition (1920-1933), the production and sale of alcohol were restricted, but medicinal and sacramental wine was permitted, resulting in small wine goblets, typically just 2 to 3 ounces in capacity, compared to modern glasses that can hold 12 to 16 ounces.

When you’re shopping for vintage barware, check for a maker’s mark or signature, typically found on the bottom of the piece—renowned manufacturers like Tiffany & Co. or T.G. Hawkes often mark their work, Spurr said. Crystal glassware is another strong indicator of value, and it tends to be heavier than regular glass, refracts light to create a rainbow prism and produces a bell-like chime when tapped, Spurr said.

“If the piece has a pontil mark — a circular scar on the bottom — it suggests it was hand-blown rather than molded, which often increases its value.”

Rare hues like cobalt blue, ruby red and emerald green tend to be more sought after than standard clear or pink glass, Spurr said. Patterns are also important. Intricate American Brilliant Period cut glass, known for its dazzling geometric designs, remains highly collectible, with works from firms like Libbey Glass and T.G. Hawkes commanding high prices. Depression glass, originally produced as an affordable option during the Great Depression, is now prized by collectors, especially in rare colors and patterns.