Pyrex Constellation: Complete Collector’s Guide
Pyrex Constellation is one of the most visually striking patterns ever made — gold stars and starburst shapes on jet-black glass. Made in 1959, it’s rare, collectible, and unmistakable. Here’s everything you need to know.
About Constellation
Constellation features a gold metallic starburst and star motif on black glass. The high contrast of gold-on-black gives it a dramatic, upscale look that stands out dramatically among Pyrex patterns, most of which used lighter backgrounds.
Production years: 1959
Colors: Gold decoration on black glass
Shapes made: Promotional/hostess set pieces, cinderella bowls, casseroles
The black glass itself is unusual — most Pyrex used white or colored glass. The production run was short, and Constellation pieces are genuinely difficult to find in any condition.
→ Track your Constellation collection
Constellation Value Guide (2026)
Cinderella Bowls
| Piece | Model | Mint | Good | Fair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 441 | $180–$280 | $90–$180 | $45–$90 |
| Medium | 442 | $200–$320 | $100–$200 | $50–$100 |
| Large | 443 | $250–$380 | $125–$250 | $65–$125 |
| Jumbo | 444 | $320–$500 | $160–$320 | $80–$160 |
| Complete set | 441–444 | $950–$1,500 | $475–$950 | — |
Casseroles & Other Pieces
| Piece | Mint | Good |
|---|---|---|
| Round casserole (with lid) | $220–$380 | $110–$220 |
| Promotional serving pieces | $150–$300 | $75–$150 |
The Gold Decoration: What to Check
Constellation’s gold decoration is the most vulnerable element. The metallic gold paint was applied over the black glass and is susceptible to:
- Wear from use — even normal use can scratch and dull the gold
- Dishwasher damage — the gold finish deteriorates rapidly with dishwasher exposure
- Age crazing — very old pieces can show fine cracking in the gold finish
A piece in truly mint condition — with bright, crisp gold decoration on unmarked black glass — is genuinely rare and commands top prices. Most surviving Constellation pieces show some gold wear.
Identifying Genuine Constellation
The black glass is the primary identifier. There’s nothing else quite like it in the Pyrex lineup. Confirm:
- Glass color: True black glass, not dark brown or dark green — hold it to light to check
- Bottom stamp: “PYREX” in block capitals, “Made in USA,” consistent with 1959 production
- Gold quality: Genuine pieces have fine-line starburst detail that should be sharp even with some wear
- Model numbers: Match the expected cinderella bowl series
Why Constellation Is Worth Collecting
Beyond the monetary value, Constellation is a genuinely spectacular display piece. The black-and-gold combination is unlike any other Pyrex pattern and works beautifully in both mid-century modern and contemporary kitchen aesthetics. Collectors who focus on dramatic display pieces specifically seek it out.
Where to Find Constellation
Like most 1959-era grail patterns, Constellation surfaces primarily at:
- Estate sales in the Midwest and South, where original mid-century kitchenware collections surface
- Specialty antique dealers who focus on mid-century Americana
- eBay — the most active market for rare patterns; check sold listings for current pricing
Related Patterns
- Lucky in Love — made the same year, the ultimate grail
- Atomic Eyes — fellow 1959 grail
- Atomic Starburst — another rare 1950s pattern