What is the origin of handblown glass?

The art of glass blowing dates back to almost 50 BC when Syrian craftsmen invented the technique. Its popularity grew with the rise of the Roman Empire, taking it through Europe and then to parts of Asia and the Middle East. Soon after, the beauty and utility of blown glass made it widely known and desired around the world.The first glass made in North America was produced in Puebla, Mexico around 1535 by artisans from Spain. Handblown glass arrived in the Guadalajara area in 1820.Central Americas first blown glass factory opened in Guatemala in 1970. Its founders learned the art from local people, which made them valuable assets for two more factories that opened in 1972. Over the years, a small community of artisans from Quetzaltenango came together to create Cantel Blown Glass Artisans, a cooperative that works together with Novica to share these unique creations with the world.

Handblown at NOVICA United Kingdom

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Featured Reviews

Handblown glass tumblers, 'Confetti Festival' (set of 6)

Kim Phillips

Jun 16, 2016

Nice, Heavy glasses

We have loved these glasses! They are heavy and durable. They're also very large--which you don't always get in hand-made glasses. We'd definitely recommend them.

Colored Drinking Glasses

Colorful

Dining Tumblers

Each Glass Is A Piece Of Art

Entertaining Tumblers

Blown glass tequila glasses, 'Cobalt Classics' (set of 6)

Hugo

Jul 28, 2025

Exceeded my expectations

Exactly what I was looking for. They're very well made, very thick and heavy glass. The packaging was beautiful as well

Blown Glasses

Casual Glassware

Colored Shot Glasses

Entertaining Glassware!

Fire Glassware

For The Mighty Handblown Glass

Glassware Drinking Set

Handblown Glass

Hand-Made Glass

Mexican Blue Rim Glasses

Handblown glass dangle earrings, 'Foliage in Blue'

Sara

Nov 28, 2025

A beautiful gift

I bought these earrings as a gift and, while the recipient has not seen them yet, I personally find them gorgeous. I'm sure the person who receives them will be delighted.

Leaf and Tree Jewellery

Jewellery