Founded in 1881 in the village of Iittala, Finland, the company quickly became one of the leading names in Scandinavian glassmaking. Throughout the twentieth century, Iittala collaborated with some of Finland's most influential designers, creating pieces that balanced functionality with artistic expression.

Rather than following short-lived trends, Iittala focused on timeless design—an approach that continues to make vintage pieces desirable decades later.

Today, many classic Iittala designs remain in production, while vintage editions are increasingly appreciated by collectors for their history, craftsmanship, and originality.

Vintage Iittala is loved for several reasons:

• Timeless Scandinavian design
• Exceptional craftsmanship
• Functional yet artistic forms
• Durable, high-quality glass
• Strong collector demand
• Sustainable choice for modern interiors

Many pieces fit effortlessly into both contemporary and traditional homes, making them attractive to collectors and interior enthusiasts alike.

Kastehelmi – Designed by Oiva Toikka

Perhaps one of the most recognizable Iittala collections, Kastehelmi (meaning dewdrop in Finnish) features delicate raised glass droplets inspired by morning dew.

The series includes:

• Bowls
• Plates
• Dessert dishes
• Candle holders
• Serving pieces

Collectors particularly appreciate older production pieces, discontinued colors, and complete sets.

Tapio – Designed by Tapio Wirkkala

Named after legendary Finnish designer Tapio Wirkkala, the Tapio series showcases elegant simplicity and masterful glassmaking.

Many pieces feature the famous air bubble trapped in the solid stem—a subtle but iconic design element that demonstrates the extraordinary skill of Iittala's glassmakers.

Tapio glasses remain highly collectible thanks to their timeless form and exceptional craftsmanship.

Aalto Collection – Designed by Alvar Aalto

The famous flowing vase designed by Alvar Aalto has become one of the most recognizable objects in Scandinavian design history.

Originally introduced in the 1930s, the Aalto vase remains an icon of Finnish modernism and is one of the most collected Iittala designs worldwide.

Ultima Thule – Designed by Tapio Wirkkala

Inspired by melting Arctic ice, Ultima Thule features richly textured glass with an organic appearance unlike any other collection.

Its distinctive surface and timeless beauty have made it a favorite among collectors and design lovers for decades.

Flora – Designed by Oiva Toikka

The Flora collection is admired for its intricate botanical patterns and exceptional detail.

Produced in various colors and sizes, vintage Flora pieces have become increasingly sought after.

Not every vintage Iittala piece has the same value. Several factors influence desirability.

Designer

Pieces by renowned designers such as:

• Tapio Wirkkala
• Oiva Toikka
• Alvar Aalto
• Timo Sarpaneva

often attract greater collector interest.

Rarity

Limited production pieces, discontinued collections, and unusual colors tend to command higher prices.

Condition

Collectors prefer pieces without:

• Chips
• Cracks
• Heavy scratches
• Cloudiness
• Repairs

Excellent condition significantly improves both display appeal and collector value.

Original Labels

Many vintage Iittala pieces originally carried paper stickers bearing the Iittala logo.

While these labels are desirable, they often disappeared through normal use. Their absence does not automatically indicate that a piece is not authentic.

As vintage Scandinavian design has grown in popularity, reproductions and misattributed pieces have become more common. Here are a few things to look for.

1. Quality of the Glass

Authentic Iittala glass is known for its:

• Exceptional clarity
• Smooth finishing
• Balanced proportions
• Refined craftsmanship

Even simple designs feel carefully made.

2. The Iittala Sticker

Many vintage pieces originally featured the familiar red Iittala sticker.

However:

• Stickers can fall off over time.
• Stickers can also be added to non-Iittala pieces.

A sticker should therefore be considered supporting evidence rather than definitive proof.

3. Signatures

Some art glass pieces, especially limited editions or designer works, may be acid-etched or engraved on the base.

Typical markings may include:

• Iittala
• Designer's signature
• Production year
• Edition information

4. Shape and Design

Many experienced collectors identify Iittala by its distinctive forms rather than labels.

Comparing pieces with original catalogues or trusted references is often one of the best ways to confirm authenticity.

5. Buy from Trusted Sellers

Always choose sellers who provide:

• Clear photographs
• Detailed descriptions
• Honest condition reports
• Information about the designer or collection
• Transparent statements regarding authenticity

At TheyUnique.com, every Scandinavian design object is carefully researched and accurately described, helping buyers purchase authentic vintage Iittala with confidence.

Although no collectible can guarantee future value, vintage Iittala has shown consistent international demand.

Collectors especially seek:

• Early production pieces
• Rare colors
• Signed art glass
• Complete tableware sets
• Iconic designer collections

As Scandinavian design continues to grow in popularity, well-preserved vintage Iittala remains one of the most accessible and rewarding areas of collecting.

The best investment is always a piece that you genuinely enjoy living with.

Proper care helps preserve both beauty and value.

• Wash delicate vintage pieces by hand whenever possible.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes.
• Use a soft microfiber cloth for drying.
• Store glasses carefully to prevent chips.
• Display valuable pieces away from unstable shelves or direct sunlight.

With proper care, Iittala glass can remain beautiful for generations.