You’ve probably seen one at a thrift store or sitting on your grandmother’s hutch. It’s heavy, clear, and catches the light in a way that feels a bit like a disco ball for the dinner table. We’re talking about the Star of David vase.
Actually, if you want to get technical—and glass collectors usually do—it’s often called "Early American Prescut" or EAPC. But to everyone else? It’s just "the Star of David pattern."
The Glass That Defined an Era
Back in the 1960s, Anchor Hocking released a line of glassware that changed the suburban American aesthetic. They didn't explicitly set out to make religious items. They just wanted something that looked like expensive cut crystal but cost about what you’d pay for a gallon of milk.
The result was the Star of David pattern. It features a bold, six-pointed star surrounded by rays and fans. It’s chunky. It’s unapologetic.
Honestly, the Star of David vase became a staple of the "good" living room. You know the one. The room where the plastic was on the sofa and the flowers were strictly for company.
Is it actually a Jewish symbol?
This is where things get interesting. In the world of glass manufacturing, the six-pointed star is often referred to as a "hobstar." It’s a geometric staple of the "Brilliant Period" of cut glass (roughly 1876 to 1917).
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But labels matter. Because it looked exactly like the Magen David, Jewish families naturally gravitated toward it. It became a de facto piece of Judaica.
People used these vases to hold flowers for Shabbat. They used the matching bowls for apples and honey during Rosh Hashanah. Even if Anchor Hocking wasn't marketing to the synagogue crowd, the community claimed it.
Why Collectors Are Hunting Them Down in 2026
Vintage is back. But not just any vintage—people want stuff that feels permanent. In a world of flimsy IKEA glass, a three-pound Star of David vase feels like a weapon. Or at least a very sturdy piece of history.
I was chatting with a vendor at a market in New Jersey last month. She told me she can't keep EAPC on the shelves. "Young people love the 'Grandmillennial' look," she said. "They want the history without the high price tag of actual 19th-century crystal."
- Durability: You could probably drop one of these on a toe and break the toe, not the vase.
- Light refraction: Because of the deep "cuts" (which are actually pressed into the mold), they sparkle like crazy under LED lighting.
- Versatility: They look just as good holding dried eucalyptus as they do with a fresh bunch of tulips.
How to Spot the Real Deal
Don't get scammed. Well, you can't really get "scammed" on a $15 vase, but it's good to know what you're looking at.
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First, feel the weight. Real Anchor Hocking EAPC is heavy. If it feels like a soda bottle, put it back. Second, look at the edges. Since these were pressed in molds, you might see a slight seam. That's totally normal for this era.
Third, check the "clarity." Some of the cheaper knock-offs from the 80s have a slightly yellow or grey tint. The original 1960s pieces are remarkably clear.
Styling a Star of David vase
Kinda tricky, right? If you put it in a room full of lace doilies, it looks dated. If you put it in a hyper-modern room, it looks like a cool architectural piece.
Try this: Put a single, dramatic branch in a 10-inch flared Star of David vase. Something like a blooming cherry blossom or even a bare manzanita branch. The geometric pattern of the glass balances out the organic messiness of the wood. It’s basically an instant focal point.
Beyond the Glass: Modern Ceramic Versions
It's not all about the vintage glass anymore. Modern Israeli artists like those at Yahalomis or Art in Clay are taking the motif and turning it into something sleek.
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We’re seeing matte white ceramics with a single, debossed Star of David. Or vases where the entire silhouette of the vessel is a hexagram. It’s a far cry from the sparkling 1960s glass, but it serves the same purpose: a tangible connection to identity.
"A Star of David in the home is more than decor. It's a silent witness."
That’s a quote from a piece on Jewish home life by Rabbi Yael Levy. She explains that having these symbols integrated into everyday objects—like a flower vase—normalizes the sacred. It’s not just for the synagogue; it’s for the breakfast table.
Actionable Tips for Your Collection
If you're ready to add a Star of David vase to your home, here is the move:
- Check the 'Bins': Thrift stores often price these as "generic glass" because they don't recognize the EAPC pattern. You can often snag them for under $10.
- Clean with Vinegar: Old glass often has "clouding" from hard water. Soak the vase in a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and warm water for an hour. It’ll come out looking brand new.
- Mix and Match: Don't just get one. The EAPC line had pitchers, butter dishes, and even punch bowls. A small cluster of different heights on a mantelpiece creates a tiered look that’s very "in" right now.
- Use it for Hanukkah: While not a menorah, the flared vase makes a perfect centerpiece for a holiday table. Fill it with blue and silver ornaments or white lilies to keep the theme going.
Whether you're buying it for the religious significance or just because you like the way it looks when the sun hits it at 4:00 PM, the Star of David vase remains a classic for a reason. It's tough, it's bright, and it's got a story to tell.
Next Steps for Your Decor
To take your display to the next level, you can look for "Early American Prescut" lots on auction sites to find the matching 10.5-inch pitcher. This creates a cohesive "water and wine" set for your dinner table that feels intentional and curated. Alternatively, pair your vintage glass with a modern linen runner to bridge the gap between mid-century style and 2026 aesthetics.