The Vintage Cake Stand To Look For At Thrift Stores

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Kitchenware items are some of the most popular non-apparel thrifted products, and there's no shortage of unique pieces to look out for. Within this category, cake stands are some of the most charming items to collect. While you can find multi-tiered and vibrantly patterned options, sometimes an understated cake stand is what you're after — and the avocado green, single-tier cake stand from The Imperial Glass Company ticks that box perfectly.

The Imperial Glass Company is a now-defunct brand that was founded in 1901 in Ohio. Financial issues in the 1970s led to Lenox purchasing the company, but it finally ceased manufacturing in 1984. The cake stand in question comes in a delicate green shade of glass, somewhat resembling the color of an avocado (hence the name). This vintage piece of dessert dishware has a scalloped edge that creates a flower-like or doily shape when viewed from above.

The surface and base also feature a pattern etched in the glass that adds to the uniqueness of the item. This specific design, named the Fashion pattern, was first created in 1908; and the cake stand itself is believed to have been produced and sold in the 1950s. With its understated design and unique hue, it's ideal for those who like minimalist pieces with a twist. If you love the stand but not the green shade, an almost identical version of this cake stand was also produced in clear glass.

This cake stand is best identified by its unique Fashion pattern, which features geometric shapes and will look the same on all authentic Imperial Glass cake stands in this style. Studying this pattern before committing to a purchase is the best way to find an authentic piece. The cake stand will also most likely have a small Imperial Glass logo on the underside of the stand, underneath the stem that holds up the plate.

As with many thrifts, some shoppers simply want the style while others want the real collectible. If you fall into the former category, you'll have a pretty easy time finding a cake stand in this style as green glass was popular between the 1920s and '70s (with avocado green specifically being one of the most popular kitchen colors of the '70s). Just be cautious about paying a high price for a product touted as Imperial Glass that may not be genuine, even if you love the style.

If you do manage to get your hands on an authentic version of this rare find, be aware that you might be paying a pretty penny for it. The cake stand has been sold by online secondhand retailers for between $75 and $150. Despite this higher price tag, you may be able to get it for less at a brick-and-mortar thrift store or at a garage sale. For example, one Redditor mentioned that they paid $20 for one while thrifting.