The Quickly Discontinued Pyrex Collection From The '50s That Collectors Still Hunt For

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Even the quickest thrift store pitstop is a good excuse to scope out valuable cookware brands. If you want your collection to be on par with Grandma's, you'll have to take the hunt seriously. That said, it's also necessary to tap into those super-sleuthing skills to dig beyond the valuable vintage Pyrex items that everyone's come to recognize. Some of the line's best finds are elusive collectibles you probably haven't even heard of, like the short-lived Pyrex Desert Dawn collection. 

Taking a cue from the natural environment, Desert Dawn sported two colorways: Desert Pink and Desert Yellow. With close examination, collectors will be able to differentiate these pieces from other notable finds due to the small speckled red and brown spots on each respective shade. The dreamy, sun-hued line comes in a pie pan, two casserole dishes, a square pan, two rectangular pans, and a square pan, yet the collection as a whole only had a shelf life from 1955-1956. Despite being one of the lesser-known pieces of Pyrex history, prices for second-hand finds are fairly reasonable, with smaller items hovering in the $20-$30 range on eBay and larger pieces selling for $60 or so. This is all the more reason to keep your eyes peeled for this '50s cookware gem at the thrift shop. 

While on your shopping outings, it's critical to know how to identify authentic vintage Pyrex. When it comes to the Desert Dawn offerings, be on the lookout for the delicate speckled finish, the types of cookware it comes in, and whether or not the piece is crafted from the renowned borosilicate glass, which allowed home cooks to go from freezing to prepping and serving seamlessly. During the time in which the line was released, the brand's trademarks were circular and sported Pyrex in all caps and typically "Made in U.S.A." and "TRADEMARK" in all caps. 

Should you happen to come across a few of these pieces while out and about — or maybe you received a hand-me-down — use them to your advantage. While you can still cook with most Pyrex offerings, do take note of any cracks, scratches, and chips, as using damaged Pyrex is not recommended. If you'd rather go the display route, add your Desert Yellow and Desert Pink finds to a shelf alongside other fun cookware and complementary-colored glasses. (Bonus points for secondhand decorative Depression Glass.) You can also transform your bowl, dish, and beyond into a home for your succulents, or get crafty and turn your Pyrex dish into a candle: All you need is your collectible dish, a small bag of Vogue Candles Sand Wax from Amazon, and you'll have a retro statement-maker in no time.