Chunky, glossy and gloriously retro, Lucite grape clusters were once found on coffee tables across America. Today these mid-century pieces, and the even rarer Lucite grape lamps, are some of the most fun vintage decor finds around.
A Little History
Lucite grapes were especially popular in the 1960s and 1970s. Individual acrylic "grapes" were wired together into bunches, often attached to a real piece of driftwood or wood for the stem. They came in every color imaginable, from amber and purple to aqua, green, pink and clear. Grape lamps took the idea further, stacking lucite balls around a lighted center so the whole cluster glowed.
Popular Styles
- Grape clusters on driftwood stems: the classic coffee table piece.
- Single-color bunches: purple, amber, green, aqua and clear are favorites.
- Mixed-color clusters: bright, playful and very collectible.
- Grape lamps: lucite balls clustered around a light, often on a gold-tone or brass base.
- Grapes with leaves: some bunches have acrylic or metal leaves.
How to Spot a Vintage Piece
- Weight: vintage grapes are solid and heavy, often weighing a few pounds per cluster.
- Real wood stems: natural driftwood or wood stems are a good sign of age.
- Crackle interiors: some vintage grapes have a crackled or frosted look inside, which collectors love.
- Wiring and construction: older bunches are typically wired together by hand.
- Signs of age: light surface scratches and gentle wear are normal.
Modern reproductions exist, often lighter in weight with plastic stems and more uniform grapes.
What to Check Before Buying
- Count for missing or loose grapes and check the wiring is secure.
- Look for chips and deep scratches on each grape.
- For lamps, check the wiring and cord; older lamps may need rewiring for safe use.
- A firmly attached stem adds to value.
Caring for Lucite Grapes
- Dust with a soft brush or cloth; a hair dryer on cool works well for crevices.
- Wash gently in mild soapy water if needed, keeping wood stems dry.
- Avoid ammonia and alcohol cleaners, which can cloud acrylic.
- Keep out of strong, constant sunlight and away from heat.
How to Style Them
- Place a cluster on a coffee table or stack of books for an instant retro touch.
- Group several colors together on a shelf near a window to catch the light.
- Use a grape lamp as a statement accent in a mid-century or eclectic room.
- Pair them with Lucite candles and brass for a full 1960s glam look.
Why Collectors Love Them
Lucite grapes are playful, colorful and full of nostalgia. For many people, they bring back memories of a parent's or grandparent's living room, and now they're finding new homes with a whole new generation.
Browse our vintage home decor collection, and read our guide to vintage Lucite candles.