How old is your Hazel Atlas jam jar?

Answer 1

The maker's mark is the easiest way. Usually, the marks are embossed at the base of the vessel along with other letters and/or numbers, which generally refer to mold numbers/forms. If the mark has an "A" inside of a "H" the piece dates from around 1920-1964. If the piece has "HAZEL" as the maker's mark, then it probably dates to around 1886-1902. "HAZEL-ATLAS" marks were used from 1902-1964. "E-Z SEAL" marks were used from 1896-1964. Finally, "E D J SEAL" marks were used around 1910. You can get more specific dates if you know when particular were being produced at different manufacturing locals. Likewise, if other areas around the vessel are embossed (e.g. "McCormick and Co." embossed near a bottles base) this can lead you to tighter dates. Sometimes the color of the glass ware will be useful as well. Generally, amethyst glass ceased to be produced around 1910 (I think!?), but other colors might have limited runs in association with specific forms/products. You'd have to do your research to find out about these possibilities.

There is a Hazel Atlas pricing guide that you can get on Amazon.com for pretty cheap. This might be of assistance. Likewise, a book entitled "Bottle Makers and their Marks" by Julian Harrison Toulouse is a good book to have on your shelf.

Answer 2

As old as the world itself.