Is Jabo marbles still in business?
Currently, many of the limited runs are still being sold individually or in sets. The only Jabo-Vitro marbles that are truly of any interest to collectors are their limited run swirls, called “Classics” by the company.
Are vintage marbles worth money?
When it comes to glass, handmade antique marbles are most valuable. They can be easily identified because they have a tiny scar, or pontil mark, where they were cut from the glass rod while being made. There are many other types of antique handmade marbles that have names describing their decorative appeal.
How do I identify Akro Agate marbles?
Akro Agate’s opalescent marbles can be distinguished by their small clear “eye,” a small circular area of clear glass surrounded by the remaining cloudy matrix. Akro Agate produced two types of marbles that were very similar to the American Cornelian (brick) by M.F. Christensen.
What is a master marble?
The Master Marble patches are identifiable by a “V” or “U” pattern and feathering seen at each pole. The patches were made in a variety of patterns, including two-color opaque, two-color translucent, and opaque with a second color brushed on.
What is an Akro marble?
An Akro Royal is a two-color patch. The base color is opaque. The patch is either opaque or transparent and usually covers about one-quarter of the marble. There is also a three-color patch that was marketed as the Tri-Color. Another type of marble that is unique to Akro Agate is the Sparkler.
Who is the co-founder of Jabo marble?
Co-founder Dave McCullough, formerly of Champion Agate, produced several limited runs each year marketed as “Classics” which are unique and collectible. Since 2008, Jabo has produced many special marble runs for collectors, typically in 3/4″ shooter size.
Where is the last marble factory in Ohio?
McCullough may have to work his magic on the furnace, which has sat idle for months in Jabo Inc.’s tiny factory near Marietta. Jabo is the last marble maker in Ohio. McCullough hopes to produce up to 120,000 one-inch marbles for a group of collectors from across the United States and Canada.
What kind of glass is used for Jabo marbles?
Sometimes special glass like oxblood, aventurine or lutz is used in all or part of a run. In December 2009, Dirty Jobs aired an episode with Mike Rowe helping make a run of pretty marbles at JABO called “Eagles”.
Who is the only marble maker in the US?
Jabo, one of only two marble makers in the U.S., is creating pretty marbles for a group of collectors from across the U.S. and Canada, perhaps for the last time. MARIETTA, Ohio (AP) — David McCullough will say a little prayer early Monday, fire up a massive gas furnace for perhaps the last time and do what he does best — produce pretty marbles.