Happy 100th birthday, Pyrex! This clear glass cookware — classic Americana — has a very colorful history. Its genesis came in 1913 from Bessie Littleton, whose husband Jesse worked at Corning Glass Works. Bessie was frustrated when her stoneware casserole broke apart in the oven, so she asked her husband if the Glass Works had a suitable substitute. Up until then, it seems, there was no such thing as glass bakeware. The next day, Bessie’s husband brought home the sawed-off bottom of a battery jar used by railroads that was made of a special shatter-resistant glass. Bessie put it to the test and liked the results… the company decided to use this opportunity to make a move into the consumer market… and in 1915 the Pyrex we know of today was born. Let’s take a look at this classic Americana company’s history … and at the products they have introduced to mark their centennial.
History of Pyrex
This book on the history of home economics had a wonderful short history of the development of Pyrex, including how home economists helped the company with its product development.
On its website, Pyrex explains more about the special glass:
The heat-tempered glass that is the foundation of the Pyrex brand was created years earlier by Corning Glass scientists charged with developing lantern glass for railroads. They needed to tackle a particular problem—the heat of the lantern flame conspired with the cold air of winter to shatter traditional glass. They needed a glass that could handle changes in temperature. By 1913, the glass was used in a number of industrial applications.
The Pyrex Wikipedia page also discusses borosilicate glass and notes that it continues to be used today in laboratory glassware because of its clarity and low thermal expansion.
However, today, Pyrex is made using tempered soda-lime glass. Here at Retro Renovation, we tend to be suspicious purists and might lean toward “buy vintage” — golly, I see it at every estate sale I go to, that’s for sure. That said, I don’t really know if there is any functional difference or other reason to buy new vs. vintage.
UPDATE: Jennifer pointed us to this 2011 report by Consumer Reports in which Consumer Reports researched reports by users of the new formula that the glassware shattered. Take a look, check with your own experts, do your own research, make your own decisions, be sure to follow directions/labels/etc.
How did Pyrex get its name?
The Wikipedia page also lists this interesting blurb from a Corning executive on the etymology of the name “Pyrex”:
The word PYREX is probably a purely arbitrary word which was devised in 1915 as a trade-mark for products manufactured and sold by Corning Glass Works. While some people have thought that it was made up from the Greek pyr and the Latin rex we have always taken the position that no graduate of Harvard would be guilty of such a classical hybrid. Actually, we had a number of prior trade-marks ending in the letters ex. One of the first commercial products to be sold under the new mark was a pie plate and in the interests of euphonism the letter r was inserted between pie and ex and the whole thing condensed to PYREX.
Pyrex advertising
Of course, we also love doing these anniversary stories because it enables us to get our hands on adorable vintage advertising. Like many other consumer products firms during the early- through mid-20th Century, Pyrex depended on idyllic American Dream style illustrations to market its products. Many of them played on the “it’s clear as glass” theme — to great effect.
Pyrex 100th anniversary collection: Hail to the Dots!
To celebrate Pyrex’s big birthday, the company has issued a special Pyrex 100 line — including a 100th anniversary engraved pie plate, five new measuring cups, five ‘Dots’ storage pieces in vibrant colors, as well as two new portable bags for the Pyrex 3-quart oblong baking dish. The Pyrex 100 anniversary line will be available to purchase until the end of 2015.
The centennial “Dot” design was inspired by Pyrex “New Dots” opal glass pattern, introduced in 1967.
Above: Complete set of vintage Pyrex “New Dot” bowls,
photo courtesy of etsy seller Sassbox Classics. The pictured set is sold.
I found a little more information and a vintage catalog image showing the “New Dot” Pyrex pattern over on Corelle Corner. It seems the “New Dot” bowls were available in four sizes, and sold as open stock — not in a set of four. After doing a quick search of ebay and etsy, it seems like full sets including all four color/sizes are hard to come by.
Dots are hots! Psshaww to chevrons: We LOVE dots — and especially polka dots!
Pyrex 100 Easy Grab pie plate: This limited pie plate carries the official 100th anniversary insignia. Etched into the bottom of the pie plate are the words “Made in Charleroi, PA USA” to honor the generations of hardworking families in Pyrex’s hometown. MSRP: $5.99
Pyrex 100 portable bags — Designed to safely transport the 3-Qt Pyrex baking dish. MSRP: $15.99 (bag only) & $34.99 (bag with baking dish)
Pyrex 100 measuring cups — Available in 5 colors and are stamped by the Pyrex 100th Anniversary logo. MSRP: $3.99 – $6.99
Pyrex 100 4-cup decorated Storage — MSRP: $5.99
Thanks to Michael Scheffki, Brand Lead for Pyrex, for supplying information for this story, along with the new product photography and vintage Pyrex advertisements.
Who has Pyrex memories?
Do we have Pyrex collectors among us?
Link love:
sherree says
I just purchased some of these 100th anniversary items at my local Target. Displayed with them at the store are “limited edition” lidded storage bowls with stripes instead of the dots. I do not see them on the Target website or anywhere else on line. They look like this:http://www.ebay.com/itm/PYREX-TURQUOISE-STRIPES-BOWL-LIMITED-EDITION-and-STORAGE-LID-/141632603273
pam kueber says
I am definitely going to get those dotted storage containers! Right now, we use plastic. I love the idea of having this burst of color – and history – greet me every time I open the fridge. I’ll try Target – thanks for the tip!
Hey BTW everyone, the special edition Lilly Pulitzer launched at Target yesterday. Another thing to go look for at the store and online.
Carol says
Pam, I thought of you every time I saw the commercial since you are a fan of Lilly Pulitzer. Those dresses looked so enticing. Fox News this afternoon said many Target stores were sold out by lunch and the website crashed due to the Lilly Pulitzer line. Lots of love for Lilly.
Pat says
I think everybody went nuts buying the Lilly stuff at Target and then listing it on ebay – there are currently more than 37,000 things listed!
pam kueber says
That is just WRONG – to buy it and then list it on ebay!
Stephanie says
Ok, I wasn’t going to go there with the Lilly for Target, but, ugh, I was so disappointed. I got to my local Target (doing a weekly run, not to specifically get the Lilly items) about 1 hour after they opened and everything was gone. I thought maybe they didn’t get the shipment in time, but when I got home I saw all the news articles and tweets, and realized what happened. I am glad I’m not one of the people that waited in line like for black Friday sales, but I wish they could have ordered more!
Hopefully the 100 Pyrex items haven’t sold out at Target!
Eric, OK says
Thank you for the information on the quality. We will now make sure items are vintage.
My wife started picking up the “friendship” pattern here and there years ago. I did not realize how cool the colors and design were until we dispayed them all in our kitchen. Pyrex is one of those items that are useful, but also fit great on display in just about any type of retro kitchen.
There are some good examples on this page. [edited]
pam kueber says
Hi Erik, please note I am not an expert so am not opining on the quality – I just gave you the link. Also note, I removed the link to Pinterest — it is not a source.
A different Kate says
I love this post! I am a serious collector (recovering hoarder) of the vintage Pyrex and the new dot collection is rather enticing. I do agree that the vintage is probably better quality (particularly if you can find “Pyroceram” options) but I’m careful to not put water on or near anything that is hot.
I have a set of modenrn Pyrex for my food storage needs (plastic sealed lids), but use my vintage for baking and mixing. None of the vintage goes into the dishwasher but the modern does.
pam kueber says
Hi a different Kate, vintage Pyrex certainly is beautiful – I see it at every estate sale and have to control myself or I would be out of control. As for the old vs new, microwave or not, dishwash or not issues, as with other such comments, I will remind all readers to do their own research so that they can make informed decisions.
Jay says
Yes, count me as a collector but not an obsessed one. I tend to buy things I come across at cheap prices. many dealers today know its popularity as vintage and price accordingly ($$). I use the pieces because of its durability and it’s microwaveable (if no metalic trim). I picked up a service for six of Pyrex dinnerware banded in dark green and a gold rim ($15) that I use for Christmas dinner. Planning a visit to the CMOG in Corning this year – they have expanded the museum and there is also an exhibit on Pyrex.
Robin, NV says
Jay, I’m with you. I love Pyrex but I’m not willing to pay the exorbitant prices dealers want. I was lucky to pick up my set of nesting mixing bowls for $20 at a clearance sale. Chocolate brown and tan with the Woodland pattern.
RetroCorning says
Make sure you check out the antique shops on Market Street while your in Corning. You’ll find some great deals on vintage Pyrex and a lot of test runs that you won’t find anywhere else.
Plus you can swing by the Pyrex factory store and get all the 100th anniversary pieces at a great discount. Look us up for lunch and I’ll use my corporate discount for another 30% off!
Laura says
I wouldn’t count myself as a serious collector, but I do really enjoy finding Pyrex at cheap prices! And I have a serious snobbery issue around rival Fire King. It’s a ridiculous snobbery because many of their prints are cute — yet, I am a Pyrex devotee.
My favorite Pyrex item is probably my opal glass butter dish with blue butterprint design. We use it every day! We get lots of use out of all of our Pyrex, plus they’re fun to display.
Crazy Daisy forever!!!
Robin, NV says
Interesting that Anchor Hawking would use the brand name “Fire King.” Isn’t that what Pyr-rex means?
Diane in CO says
Great observation – you’re right!
Chris says
Now that is the neatest little bit of trivia I’ve heard in a long time! How cool! I collect Fire King jadeite and really appreciate that observation!
Jennifer says
Caution!!!! If you do a quick search, you will find out that the more recent soda-lime formulation may shatter into a zillion tiny slivers after heating–a very dangerous situation. This is no myth–Consumer Reports and many other resources have reported it, there are videos of it, etc. My sister was injured when a soda-lime measuring cup shattered. If you want to use it for its heat-resistant properties, especially hot liquid–watch out!
In Europe, Pyrex is still borosilicate glass. Because the clear measuring cups are used by many cooks for hot liquid, I suggest you make sure to get true borosilicate class, rather than 1998 or later American Pyrex.
You can tell the difference for clear pyrex by color: One has a green cast and the other a yellow cast–I can’t find the answer to which one right now, but maybe someone else who reads the blog can find this information.
Stephanie says
I’ve never had one shatter (vintage or new), and we use them daily in the oven, cooking frozen things, freezing batches of sauces, etc., so they’ve sure seen their share of abuse. I’ve noticed that the new ones have the aqua-ish tint to them (see the edges of the pie plate picture). My older ones from my mom are completely clear.
Laura says
Agreed — we’ve had several of the new pyrex pans shatter. The biggest risk is putting it on a wet surface. But it’s shattered when we put it on top of a dry towel. Go vintage on the bakeware, all the way!!!
pam kueber says
Hi Laura. Readers: Be sure to do your own research so that you can make informed decisions.
MelissaL. says
Here is a link to an article that references scientific study on the difference between the borosilicate and soda lime silicate glass. Seems there is data to support the inferiority of the soda lime glass.
http://www.techfragments.com/1608/exploding-pyrex-cookware/
So, as usual, vintage is better.
pam kueber says
Hi Melissa. Readers: Do your own research to assess the issues so that you can make informed decisions.
pam kueber says
Hi Jennifer, Thank you for this precautionary information. I have added an UPDATE with a link to the Consumer Reports research in the article.
As usual, dear readers: On issues related to safety and environment, I refer you to Consult with Properly Licensed Professionals — do your own homework — so that you can make your own informed decisions.
I will leave these comments up to flag the issue, but moving forward, no more “advice” from Commenters on how to handle the issue, okay? Again, I think it is best for readers to do their own research, seek out their own expert advice on this issue.
Lilly says
I had one of the newer Pyrex pans shatter in my face. I was lucky I didn’t end up with glass shards in my eyes. I was still picking glass shards out of any body part that was facing the pan when it broke.
I only use them in the microwave and sparingly anymore after that. The old formulation didn’t seem to have this problem and the old ones felt much heavier. My mom has one of the really old glass pie plates and they are much heavier.
pam kueber says
Hi Lilly, yikes. Again, readers: Do you own research on this issue to determine how to handle. Be sure to follow directions, warnings, etc.
Jennifer says
I should clarify that the greenish/yellowish tint is for the *clear* items, such as measuring cups.
Many people have commented that they’ve never had a problem with their newer Pyrex. In some articles I read after my sister was injured, there was a suggestion that it’s sudden temperature changes, especially fridge-to-oven or oven-to-granite countertop or hot liquid poured into a dish that caused the problem. Disappointingly, Pyrex USA /Anchor Hocking has stonewalled people who’ve complained. My take–Pyrex doesn’t get sudden temp changes in my house.
pam kueber says
Hi Jennifer, thank you for your concern.
Again, to readers, I reiterate: On this issue — as with other safety and environmental issues that come up here — do your own research so that you can make informed decisions how to handle.
I will add that a number of readers have been commenting on how to distinguish “new” vs. “vintage” given the coloring… the cast or tint. Please also do your own research on this issue so that you can make informed decisions.
midmichigan says
This is a great post you guys! It taps into a sliver of Americana that everyone has probably owned, used and or ate from in their lifetimes. The trade name “Pyrex” like “Kleenex” or “Xerox” is not only recognized by just about everyone for its function but it bridges into art as well. I enjoyed the entire story very much!
Tear-down Townie says
My favorite has to be the Saunders Pyrex Silver Streak iron. I saw one in a traveling museum exhibit about 13 years ago and it blew my mind.
https://www.google.com/search?q=pyrex+silver+streak+iron&biw=1455&bih=683&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=gd40VbquCMSMNvjVgJgI&ved=0CCUQsAQ
Roundhouse Sarah says
Wow, Coolest iron ever!
pam kueber says
WOW!
Laura says
OMG!
Diane in CO says
Just this past week I photographed a Silver Streak at the Vance Kirkland Museum of Decorative Arts here in Denver! It was in a case, all nicely labelled, with some beautiful Hall pottery which I was photographing. I’d never seen one before and it is mind-blowing, as you say!
Great Pyrex article!
Carol says
It’s so perfect I almost feel like weeping. Industrial design at it’s finest. And I thought the $2.95 percolator was amazing. WOW!
Marya says
I don’t collect things, but I use, and love to use, my mom’s Pyrex mixing bowls set. It’s pictured in the first ad – 4 bowls in primary colors. They’re a little scratched up, but sturdy as all get out. I’ve picked up a couple of orphans here and there, too, and now I have another almost complete set. I don’t need it, but they were at a flea market not being appreciated, so I adopted them.
RetroCorning says
Great article, we love the vintage ads you found for it. We of course are collectors but for those people that are just out of room we found a great little company on kickstarter a few years ago that does vintage Pyrex prints including a great 100th anniversary one.
http://shop.poconomodern.com/collections/artwork/Pyrex
*Full disclosure, I am not affiliated with this company but have their prints on my wall*
pam kueber says
Very sweet!