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Are you dreaming of a more elegant, brighter and authentic Christmas? Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments are just what you're looking for.
Want to learn all about these little works of art made from Venetian glass, including their history, techniques, types, prices, curiosities and buying tips?
Discover all in this guide by Venice Insider Guide.
Murano Glass Christmas Tree Ornaments
These Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments are decorative items made from blown glass, crafted by skilled glassmakers from the island of Murano, just a short distance from Venice.
Each piece is handmade according to centuries-old techniques, making each ornament unique in its own right.
They're perfect for anyone wanting a touch of international style, refinement and a load of cultural significance on their Christmas tree.
What are Murano Christmas decorations?
They're decorative items made from artistic glass, often blown, and enriched with aventurine, gold or silver leaf, coloured murrine and mineral pigments.
Some types of Murano Christmas decorations include:
- classic Christmas balls
- blown glass drops
- Christmas figures such as stars, angels, bells
- coordinated sets for a tree with a completely Murano style
They're decorations that tell a story, the fruit of a craft tradition that Venice has been treasured for over 700 years.
Vase Decoration
It's common to find Christmas decorations flanked by Murano glass vases. The vases become decorative elements that complete the festive scene, often accompanied by light displays, candles or Christmas wreaths. Many designers pair the Christmas balls with the vases to create a stylish set to display in the living room.
Christmas
The Venetian Christmas has a special charm: illuminated alleys, tiny Murano workshops full of decorations and the lagoon reflecting the magic of the festive season. Murano glass ornaments are one of the most loved traditions by locals, who often pass them down from generation to generation as symbols of good luck and prosperity.
Sets
A Murano glass Christmas tree ornament set can include 4, 6, 8 or more matching pieces. Sets are ideal for those wanting a tree that's consistent in style, colour and craftsmanship. Each set can vary in theme: classic, modern, vintage, murrine, gold leaf or abstract design.
Garland
The Murano glass Christmas wreath is a refined decoration that often combines small glass pieces in a variety of colours fixed on a metallic structure or a natural one. The result is a bright and artistic garland that can decorate doors, windows or festive tables.
Tree
The Christmas tree decorated with Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments gains an international, bright and refined character. The balls reflect the light in a unique way thanks to the purity of the glass and the gold or silver inlays, creating genuine Venetian postcard atmospheres.
What makes Murano Christmas decorations so special?
The colours, types and price are just a few of the things that make Murano Christmas decorations special. But there's a whole lot more to them than just that.
Colour
The colours of Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments are like a rainbow bursting open, blazing reds, blues as deep as the lagoon and pastel hues, crystal clear glass and multicoloured murrines that dance together like a kaleidoscope. These colours come from natural minerals - a ancient technique that gives us vibrant and long-lasting colours.
Height
Here are the sizes of Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments:
- Mini: 3-5 cm - small but perfectly formed
- Standard: 6-10 cm - classic size, perfect for any tree
- Maxi: over 12 cm - for those who want to make a statement
And the best thing? Every single one is made by hand, so sizes can vary just a little bit.
Technique
Some of the techniques that Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments are made using include:
- Blowing glass: where the glassmaker blows the glass to shape it
- Murrine: when coloured glass discs are applied to the ornament
- Avventurina: for a sparkly finish with tiny metallic crystals
- Sommerso: when multiple layers of glass are layered up to create depth and colour
Price
Prices for Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments vary from €20-€30 for a single ornament to €150-€300 for a whole set. And if you're looking for something really special, like a vintage or art edition, be prepared to pay over €500.
Types
Murano glass Christmas decorations come in all sorts of styles. You might find:
- traditional designs
- bell-shaped
- stars and snowflakes
- tiny glass nativity scenes
- abstract shapes
- modern designs with murrine and avventurina
- vintage-inspired decorations from the 50s and 60s
And the best thing? Every single one is unique - you won't find two identical Murano glass Christmas decorations in a lifetime!
What are the most famous Murano glass Christmas decorations?
The most famous Murano glass Christmas decorations are the ones made with 100% authentic Murano glass - true works of art created by the master glassmakers of Murano, where art meets tradition.
Every single one is made with love and care, thought of as a precious Italian crystal, perfect as a gift for your Christmas tree or as a decoration for your home during the holidays.
Vintage Murano Glass Christmas Tree Ornaments
Rarity items, often collectible, made between the 40s and 70s. They're highly sought after by collectors because they represent the evolution of post-war Venetian design.
Murano Glass Ornaments Made in Italy
The words "made in Italy" guarantee the authenticity of the craftsmanship. Our certified artisans follow traditional methods that ensure quality, safety and origin.
Glass Balls in the style of 50s
Characterised by reflective surfaces and pastel colours, they symbolise the aesthetic of the economic boom. Anyone who loves retro style loves them.
Glass Ornaments in Unusual Shapes
Including decorations with weird and wonderful shapes, 3D effects, gold inclusions, geometric patterns and modern designs.
Handmade Glass Ornaments
Made entirely by hand, no moulds to be seen! Each one tells the story of the glass artist who made it.
Some useful info about Murano glass Christmas tree ornaments
Murano glass Christmas decorations are:
- if you treat them right, they'll last you a lifetime
- easy to clean with a soft cloth
- so light they're easy to hang
- perfect as a gift for anyone who loves the festive season
Why is the Murano glass Christmas tree Venice Italy so famous?
Because it combines art, history and a bit of real Venice! It is not just a beautiful Murano glass object, but a fragment of European culture that travels the world.
And anyone who buys a Murano glass Christmas decoration is taking home a piece of clothing that is esteemed and linked to a tradition that has managed to endure centuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are they fragile?
Yes, they are made of art glass and therefore need to be treated with some care - but the quality of Murano products is surprisingly good and able to last.
Can I use these items in a tree abroad as well?
Yes, there are problems: but many of the stores sell high-quality shockproof packaging that is perfectly suitable for transport by air.
How to recognize an authentic piece?
Look for certifications, official workshops and recognized stores on the island of Murano. These may help you.
Are they a good gift?
They are incredible. They are refined, cultural, elegant and carry some of the Venetian good luck. In short, they make a perfect gift.
Conclusion
Murano Glass Christmas Tree Ornaments are more than just a nice Christmas accessory. they are a way to make your Christmas a little richer with Venetian history, beauty and tradition.
Each piece is a small piece of the island's soul, made with the craftsmanship of the artisans who make it.
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