What Every Member of the 

Trade Community Should Know About: 

Colored Bubble 

Glass (and Other 

Special Types of 

Glassware) 

AN INFORMED COMPLIANCE PUBLICATION 

APRIL 2006
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

NOTICE:

This publication is intended to provide guidance and information to the trade community. 

It reflects the position on or interpretation of the applicable laws or regulations by U.S. 

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as of the date of publication, which is shown on 

the front cover. It does not in any way replace or supersede those laws or regulations. 

Only the latest official version of the laws or regulations is authoritative. 

Publication History 

First Published August 2000 

Reviewed with no Changes January 2004 

Reviewed With No Changes May 2005 

Reviewed with No Changes April 2006 

PRINTING NOTE: 

This publication was designed for electronic distribution via the CBP website 

(http://www.cbp.gov) and is being distributed in a variety of formats. It was originally 

created using Microsoft® Word. Pagination and margins in downloaded versions may 

vary depending upon which word processor or printer you use. If you wish to maintain 

the original settings, you may wish to download the Portable Document Format (PDF) 

version, which can then be printed using Adobe® Reader® or other PDF reader. 

2
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

PREFACE 

On December 8, 1993, Title VI of the North American Free Trade Agreement Implementation 

Act (Pub. L. 103-182, 107 Stat. 2057), also known as the Customs Modernization or “Mod” Act, 

became effective. These provisions amended many sections of the Tariff Act of 1930 and 

related laws. 

Two new concepts that emerge from the Mod Act are “informed compliance” and “shared 

responsibility,” which are premised on the idea that in order to maximize voluntary compliance 

with laws and regulations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the trade community needs to 

be clearly and completely informed of its legal obligations. Accordingly, the Mod Act imposes a 

greater obligation on CBP to provide the public with improved information concerning the trade 

community's rights and responsibilities under customs regulations and related laws. In addition, 

both the trade and U.S. Customs and Border Protection share responsibility for carrying out 

these requirements. For example, under Section 484 of the Tariff Act, as amended (19 U.S.C. 

1484), the importer of record is responsible for using reasonable care to enter, classify and 

determine the value of imported merchandise and to provide any other information necessary to 

enable U.S. Customs and Border Protection to properly assess duties, collect accurate 

statistics, and determine whether other applicable legal requirements, if any, have been met. 

CBP is then responsible for fixing the final classification and value of the merchandise. An 

importer of record’s failure to exercise reasonable care could delay release of the merchandise 

and, in some cases, could result in the imposition of penalties. 

The Office of Regulations and Rulings (ORR) has been given a major role in meeting the 

informed compliance responsibilities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In order to 

provide information to the public, CBP has issued a series of informed compliance publications 

on new or revised requirements, regulations or procedures, and a variety of classification and 

valuation issues. 

This publication, prepared by the National Commodity Specialist Division, ORR, is a study of the 

classification of colored bubble glass and other special types of glassware. “Colored Bubble 

Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware)” provides guidance regarding the classification 

of imported merchandise. We sincerely hope that this material, together with seminars and 

increased access to rulings of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, will help the trade 

community to improve voluntary compliance with customs laws and to understand the relevant 

administrative processes. 

The material in this publication is provided for general information purposes only. Because 

many complicated factors can be involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a 

ruling under Regulations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 19 C.F.R. Part 177, or to 

obtain advice from an expert who specializes in customs matters, for example, a licensed 

customs broker, attorney or consultant. 

Comments and suggestions are welcomed and should be addressed to the Assistant 

Commissioner at the Office of Regulations and Rulings, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, (Mint Annex) NW, Washington, D.C. 20229. 

Sandra L. Bell, 

Acting Assistant Commissioner 

Office of Regulations and Rulings 

3
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

(This page intentionally left blank)

4
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 7 

SUBHEADING 7013.99.10 ............................................................................................. 7 

Colored Bubble Glassware: Two Criteria ..................................................................... 8 

Colored Bubble Glassware Criterion #1 - Color ........................................................ 8 

Colored Bubble Glassware Criterion #2 – Bubbles, Seeds Or Stones .................... 10 

Thread or Ribbon Glassware ..................................................................................... 11 

Pictorial Glassware..................................................................................................... 15 

Millefiori Glassware .................................................................................................... 18 

Glassware with Metal Flecking................................................................................... 19 

SUBHEADING 7013.99.10 VS. OTHER 7013.99 SUBHEADINGS.............................. 19 

SUBHEADING 7013.99.10 VS. SUBHEADINGS 7013.29 AND 7013.39..................... 20 

SUBHEADINGS 9906.70.01 AND 9906.70.02: ............................................................ 22 

Special Types of Drinking Glasses Made in Mexico................................................... 22 

THE IMPORTER’S RESPONSIBILITIES...................................................................... 22 

INVOICING REQUIREMENTS...................................................................................... 25 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION...................................................................................... 27 

The Internet................................................................................................................ 27 

Customs Regulations ................................................................................................. 27 

Customs Bulletin ........................................................................................................ 27 

Importing Into the United States................................................................................. 28 

Informed Compliance Publications............................................................................. 28 

Value Publications...................................................................................................... 29 

“Your Comments are Important”................................................................................. 30 

 

5
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

(This page intentionally left blank) 

6
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

INTRODUCTION 

This informed compliance publication focuses on the classification of special types of 

decorative glassware covered by subheading 7013.99.10, HTSUS (Harmonized Tariff 

Schedule of the United States). 

SUBHEADING 7013.99.10 

While subheading 7013.29, HTSUS covers drinking glasses and subheading 

7013.39, HTSUS provides for other table and kitchen glassware (see previous Informed 

Compliance Publication entitled “What Every Member of the Trade Community Should 

Know About: Table and Kitchen Glassware” issued March 2000), subheading 

7013.99 covers glassware for toilet, office, indoor decoration and similar purposes. 

Thus, with the exception of table and kitchen glassware, the gamut of household articles 

of glass are covered by subheading 7013.99, HTSUS. 

Since the eight-digit subheading 7013.99.10 is one of the provisions falling within the 

six-digit subheading 7013.99, every product classified in subheading 7013.99.10 must 

be glassware for toilet, office, indoor decoration or similar purposes provided for in 

subheading 7013.99. If a product is a drinking glass or other article of table/kitchen 

glassware classifiable in subheading 7013.29 or 7013.39, it cannot be classified in 

subheading 7013.99.10 even if it possesses the special features described in that 

subheading. Only decorative glassware and similar household articles (other than 

table/kitchen glassware) may be classified in subheading 7013.99.10. 

The following is a list of the special types of glassware covered by subheading 

7013.99.10: 

1) Glassware Decorated with Metal Flecking Embedded or Introduced 

into the Body of the Glassware Prior to Solidification 

2) Glassware Decorated with Glass Pictorial Scenes Embedded or 

Introduced into the Body of the Glassware Prior to Solidification 

3) Glassware Decorated with Glass Thread- or Ribbon-like Effects 

Embedded or Introduced into the Body of the Glassware Prior to 

Solidification 

4) Millefiori Glassware 

5) Glassware Colored Prior to Solidification and Characterized by 

Numerous Bubbles, Seeds or Stones Throughout the Mass of the 

Glass 

This publication will discuss each of the special types of glassware covered by 

subheading 7013.99.10. The publication will explain the criteria applied when Customs 

7
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

determines whether or not a particular glass product belongs in one of the categories 

mentioned in this subheading. We will discuss products classifiable in subheading 

7013.99.10 as well as products classifiable elsewhere in the HTSUS that are often 

entered erroneously in this provision. 

Colored Bubble Glassware: Two Criteria 

The most frequent questions that have arisen regarding the products covered by 

subheading 7013.99.10 have concerned colored bubble glassware classifiable in this 

provision. 

There are two criteria for colored bubble glass: color and bubbles, seeds or stones. 

A decorative glass article can be classified as colored bubble glassware in subheading 

7013.99.10 only if the product meets both criteria. 

The language of subheading 7013.99.10 describes the two criteria for colored 

bubble glassware in the following manner. 

• The article must be “colored prior to solidification.” 

• The article must be “characterized by numerous bubbles, seeds or stones 

located throughout the mass of the glass.” 

Several Headquarters rulings have interpreted the precise meaning and application 

of each of these criteria. Note Headquarters rulings HQ 958110, 12-18-95; HQ 953016, 

04-28-93; HQ 089054, 08-02-91; HQ 951783, 02-02-93; HQ 959404, 07-21-97; HQ 

043600, 02-26-76; C.I.E. 1070/66, 04-12-66 [T.D. 66-23(7)]. Note also New York 

rulings NY A86534, 08-26-96; NY C83894, 04-15-98. 

In the next two sections of this publication we will explain how both the color criterion 

and the bubble criterion are applied. 

Colored Bubble Glassware Criterion #1 - Color 

 For merchandise classifiable as colored bubble glassware in subheading 

7013.99.10, the color must be introduced into the glassware prior to solidification. 

A product may be regarded as colored bubble glass only if a genuine source 

of color (e.g., a dye or a pigment) was inserted prior to the solidification of the 

glass. If the color within a glass article was simply derived from recycled glass 

and no new source of color was introduced into the mass during the production 

of the glassware, the article will not be regarded as colored. See the rulings cited 

in the previous section. 

Thus, articles of recycled glass generally do not qualify for consideration as colored 

bubble glass. However, there is one exception to this general rule. 

8
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Clearly, if recycled glass is the source of color in the finished product, the item will 

not be regarded as colored. However, in some instances, although a glass item is 

produced from recycled glass, a new source of color (e.g., a pigment or dye) is also 

introduced prior to solidification. If this new source of color (rather than the recycled 

glass) gives the finished product its color, the article may be regarded as colored. 

Example: A decorative glass article is painted on the surface of the glass. Does this 

product qualify as colored glassware in subheading 7013.99.10? 

 

Answer: No. An article must contain color that was inserted into the glassware prior to 

solidification to qualify for classification as colored glassware. A glass article that 

is simply painted on the surface cannot be regarded as colored glassware under 

subheading 7013.99.10. 

Glass products that have not actually been colored in any manner sometimes have 

the deceptive appearance of being colored. Sometimes the manner in which sand and 

other ingredients in glassware are processed during production gives the finished article 

a light tinge of color (often a light green color). This type of article clearly is not 

regarded as colored glassware under subheading 7013.99.10. An article may be 

regarded as colored only when a genuine source of color (e.g., a pigment or a dye) was 

introduced prior to solidification. 

When the question arises as to whether a particular imported product is “colored” 

glassware for purposes of subheading 7013.99.10, the importer should obtain 

information from the foreign manufacturer regarding the precise method of production 

for this article. This is very significant because products that do not meet the definition 

of colored glassware are often entered incorrectly as colored glassware in subheading 

7013.99.10 and sometimes items that meet the definition are not entered correctly in 

this subheading. 

The information from the manufacturer should be submitted to U.S. Customs. This 

information should indicate the exact manner in which the product acquired its color. 

Was the color created by recycled glass? Was the glassware simply colored on the 

surface? Was a genuine source of color – e.g., a pigment or a dye – inserted into the 

glassware prior to solidification? 

If a genuine source of color was inserted prior to solidification, the information from 

the manufacturer should specify the precise chemical or geological name of this 

material. 

The rulings cited above indicate that a product must be colored throughout 

(completely colored) to be classified as colored bubble glassware in subheading 

7013.99.10. If a glass article is only partially colored, it cannot be regarded as 

colored glassware. 

9
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

 

Fig. 1- Colored Bubble 

Glass 

Figs. 2 and 3 - Although these items seem to have a light 

green tinge, they have not actually been colored at all and 

7013.99.10 should not be classified as colored glass in 7013.99.10 

Colored Bubble Glassware Criterion #2 – Bubbles, Seeds Or Stones 

The provision for colored bubble glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 indicates that 

this merchandise must contain “numerous bubbles, seeds or stones throughout 

the mass of the glass.” 

Clearly if visual examination of an article of decorative glassware reveals many 

bubbles, seeds or stones, this product meets the “bubble criterion” of colored bubble 

glassware. 

The rulings cited above indicate that if there are only some bubbles, seeds or 

stones the product may be classified as colored bubble glass only if it contains no 

“fining agents” - e.g., antimony or arsenic oxides, dioxides or trioxides. These 

fining agents are materials that stifle the formation of bubbles, seeds, or stones. The 

presence of fining agents in the glassware would disallow classification as 

10
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

colored bubble glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 when visual analysis reveals 

only some bubbles, seeds or stones. (See section above entitled Colored Bubble 

Glassware: Two Criteria for citations to rulings.) 

 

Thus, if visual analysis reveals only some bubbles, seeds or stones, we must check 

for the presence of fining agents. The importer should obtain information from the 

foreign manufacturer regarding the presence or absence of these agents in the product. 

This information should be submitted to U.S. Customs. 

If the information indicates that fining agents are present, the importer should obtain 

the precise chemical or mineralogical names of these materials from the manufacturer. 

Thread or Ribbon Glassware 

While the most frequently raised questions regarding subheading 7013.99.10 

concern colored bubble glassware, we often receive questions regarding thread or 

ribbon glassware which is also covered by this provision. 

Subheading 7013.99.10 includes a provision for “Glassware decorated with glass 

thread- or ribbon-like effects embedded or introduced into the body of the 

glassware prior to solidification.” 

A thread-like effect is a thin line inserted into the glassware. A ribbon-like effect is a 

thicker line or band inserted into the glassware.

A glass article must meet the following criteria to qualify for classification as thread 

or ribbon glass in subheading 7013.99.10: 

• The thread or ribbon effect must itself be made of glass. 

• This effect must be inserted into the larger glass article prior to its 

solidification. 

 

Like the article itself, the thread or ribbon effect must consist of glass. If a glass

article contains a thread- or ribbon-like effect formed by a material other than glass 

(e.g., a chemical or mineral), the product cannot be classified as thread or ribbon 

glassware in subheading 7013.99.10. 

In addition, the glass thread or ribbon effect must be embedded or introduced into 

the larger glass article prior to its solidification. If a thread or ribbon effect is simply 

placed on the surface of the glassware after solidification (even if this effect is 

itself made of glass), the product cannot qualify for classification as thread or 

ribbon glassware. 

11
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Example 1: A glass decorative article that is otherwise clear contains a colored thread 

or ribbon effect formed by a dye or pigment inserted into the glassware prior to 

solidification. 

a) Does this product qualify for classification as thread or ribbon glassware in 

subheading 7013.99.10? 

b) Does it qualify for classification as colored bubble glassware in subheading 

7013.99.10? 

Answer: 

 

a) No. The article described in the example cannot be classified as thread or 

ribbon glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 because the thread or ribbon 

effect was not made of glass. To be regarded as thread or ribbon glassware, 

a glass article must contain a thread or ribbon effect that is itself made of 

glass. 

b) No. The article described in the example cannot be classified as colored 

glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 because it is not completely colored. A 

product must be completely colored to qualify for classification as colored 

glassware. (See section above entitled Colored Bubble Glassware 

Criterion #1 – Color.) 

Example 2: A decorative glass article has a thread or ribbon design etched, engraved, 

painted, attached or drawn on the surface of the glassware. Can this product be 

regarded as thread or ribbon glass under subheading 7013.99.10? 

Answer: No. A product can be classified as thread or ribbon glassware in subheading 

7013.99.10 only if the thread or ribbon effect is itself made of glass and was 

inserted into the larger glass article prior to solidification. A product that 

simply has a thread or ribbon design etched, engraved, painted, attached or 

drawn on the surface of the glass does not qualify for classification as thread or 

ribbon glassware. 

Even if a glass thread or ribbon design is attached to the surface of the glass article, 

the product will not be classified as thread or ribbon glassware in subheading 

7013.99.10. The provision for thread or ribbon glassware is only applicable when the 

glass thread or ribbon design is inserted into the larger glass article prior to 

solidification. 

Errors often take place with regard to the classification of this merchandise. Glass 

articles that are simply etched or engraved with ribbon or thread designs, as well as 

glass articles that simply have thread or ribbon designs drawn or painted on the surface 

are often entered incorrectly as thread or ribbon glassware. Sometimes, articles of 

genuine thread or ribbon glass (i.e., glass products containing glass thread or ribbon 

12
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

effects inserted into the larger glass articles prior to solidification) are not entered 

correctly as thread or ribbon glassware. 

Therefore, an importer who believes that a product may be thread or ribbon 

glassware should obtain information from the foreign manufacturer on the precise 

method of production for the item. This information should specify the exact material of 

the thread or ribbon design and the exact manner in which it was incorporated into the 

larger glass article. The merchandise may be classified as thread or ribbon glassware 

only if a glass thread or ribbon design was inserted into the glassware prior to 

solidification. 

A product called “crackled glass” or “ice glass” is often entered incorrectly as thread 

or ribbon glass. This type of glassware has irregular crackles (which have the 

appearance of broken ice or a spider’s web). The crackle feature is created by the 

manner in which the glass is processed and cooled during production. 

Crackled glass is not produced by inserting a glass thread or ribbon effect into the 

glassware prior to solidification and should not be classified as thread or ribbon 

glassware in subheading 7013.99.10. 

A glass article decorated with colored dots or any shapes (e.g., patches or squares) 

other than thread- or ribbon-like designs cannot be classified as thread or ribbon 

glassware even if these dots or other shapes are made of glass material and are 

inserted into the glassware prior to solidification. The provision for thread or ribbon 

glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 requires that the designs be thread- or ribbon-like, 

not any other shapes such as dots, squares, etc. 

Furthermore, an otherwise clear article decorated with colored dots, squares or 

patches cannot be classified as colored glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 even if 

these dots, squares or patches are inserted prior to solidification. As explained above, 

the provision for colored glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 requires that the glass 

article be completely colored, not partially colored. 

Note the following New York rulings on products classifiable as thread and ribbon 

glassware as well as products that fail to qualify for classification under this provision. 

NY E87764, 10-15-99; NY E85565, 08-13-99; NY E85556, 08-13-99; NY F80118, 12-

15-99; NY D85630, 12-18-98. 

13
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

 

Fig. 4 -Glass Ribbon 

Effect? 

Fig. 5 -Glass 

Ribbon Effect? 

Fig. 6 -Glass Ribbon Effect?

Yes. Glass ribbon inserted 

prior to solidification to create 

the band or ribbon 

Yes. Glass ribbon inserted 

prior to solidification 

Yes. Glass ribbon 

inserted prior to 

solidification 

 

Fig. 7 -Glass Ribbon 

Effect? 

Fig. 8 – Crackle Glass. 

Is the “crackle effect” regarded as “thread-like” 

under 7013.99.10? No. It does not consist of 

glass inserted into the larger glass article prior 

to solidification. 7013.99.10 does not apply 

No. Glass ribbon was not 

inserted into glassware 

prior to solidification. All 

effects are merely on the 

surface of the glass

14
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

 

Fig. 9 - Colored Glass? Thread or Ribbon 

Effect? No. Color is not present throughou

body of the article. Blue dots or circles

t 

 do 

not constitute thread or ribbon effects 

Pictorial Glassware 

ith 

estions have often arisen about the application of the provision for 

pictorial glass. 

bheading 7013.99.10, a decorative 

glass article must meet the following criteria: 

• The pictorial effect must itself be made of glass. 

• t be inserted into the larger glass article prior to its 

solidification. 

e 

does not qualify for classification as pictorial glassware in subheading 7013.99.10. 

Subheading 7013.99.10 also includes a provision for “Glassware decorated w

pictorial scenes embedded or introduced into the body of the glassware prior to 

solidification.” Qu

To be classified as pictorial glassware in su

This effect mus

 

In genuine pictorial glassware a glass pictorial scene appears to float within the 

glass decorative article. A glass article with a picture on the surface of the glasswar

15
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Examp

. Can this article be classified as pictorial glassware 

in subheading 7013.99.10? 

Answ

material other than glass, the product will not be regarded as pictorial glassware. 

Examp

glassware in subheading 7013.99.10? 

Answ

 on the surface of the glass, the item will not be regarded as pictorial 

glassware. 

ct 

er 

ils regarding the production of the glassware should be 

submitted to U.S. Customs. 

31, 

2, 07-09-99; NY E84009, 07-13-99; NY E85452, 08-17-99; NY 

88619, 10-21-99. 

le 1: A glass decorative article contains a picture or scene which has been 

inserted prior to the solidification of the glassware. This picture or scene is made 

of a material other than glass

er: No. To be classified as pictorial glassware, a glass article must contain a 

picture or scene that is itself made of glass. If the pictorial effect is made of a 

le 2: A picture or scene is painted, drawn, etched, attached or engraved on the

surface of a glass decorative article. Can this product be classified as pictorial 

er: No. To be classified as pictorial glassware, a decorative glass article must 

contain a glass pictorial effect that has been inserted into the glassware 

prior to solidification. If the picture is simply painted, drawn, etched, attached 

or engraved

Items that fail to meet the criteria for pictorial glassware are often entered incorrectly 

under this provision in subheading 7013.99.10. An importer who believes that a produ

may qualify for classification as pictorial glassware should obtain information from the 

manufacturer indicating whether or not the pictorial effect is made of glass and wheth

or not this effect is inserted into the larger glass article prior to its solidification. This 

information including full deta

Note the following New York rulings on products classifiable as pictorial glassware 

as well as products that fail to qualify for classification under this provision. NY E823

05-28-99; NY E8380

E

16
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Fig. 10- Glass fish 

containing a 

pictorial scene 

depicting fish. 

7013.99.10 applies 

because pictorial 

scene is itself made 

of glass and 

inserted into the 

larger glass article 

prior to solidification

 

Fig. 11- Vines and leaves are etched 

on the surface of the article. Does this 

qualify as pictorial glass under 

7013.99.10?

into the larger glass article prior to 

solidification 

 No. Pictorial glass only 

refers to a glass article containing a 

glass pictorial scene that was inserted 

Fig. 12 – 7013.99.10 does not apply. Pictures a

lines not inserted into glass article prior to 

nd 

solidification. Glass vase classified in the 

e 

pictures are etched and painted on the surface. 

Not thread glass because the lines are produced 

by means of the “crackle” effect; they are not 

thread-like designs of glass inserted into the larger 

glass article prior to solidification. 

appropriate 7013.99 subheading based on value. 

Not classified as pictorial glass because th

17
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Mi

 in subheading 7013.99.10 consists of elaborately 

des y 

 means “a 

or 

rn that 

is also made of glass. 

er 

glass article prior to its solidification. 

s 

are sometimes incorrectly claimed to be millefiori articles. 

 Glass products with multicolored patterns etched, engraved, attached, painted or 

drawn on the surface will not be regarded as millefiori glassware. Glass articles 

containing patterns made of materials other than glass will not be regarded as millefiori

glassware even if these patterns were inserted prior to solidification. A decorative glass 

item is classifiable as millefiori glassware only when the millefiori pattern is itself made 

of glass and was introduced into the larger glass article prior to its solidification. 

Millefiori glassware is generally rather expen n inexpensive item is 

claimed to be millefiori glassware, it is very probable that the claim is incorrect. 

An importer who believes that a product may be millefiori glassware should obtain 

information from the foreign manufacturer on the precise method of production for this 

merchandise. The letter from the producer should indicate whether or not the millefiori 

design was made of glass and whether or not this pattern was inserted into the larger 

glass article prior to its solidification. This information should be submitted to U.S. 

Customs. 

 

llefiori Glassware 

Millefiori glassware classifiable

igned multicolored patterns within a decorative glass article. The patterns ma

be described as flower-like or starburst-like. (“Millefiori” is an Italian word that

thousand flowers.”) The lines of color appear to project forth like the petals of a flower 

the rays of a star. 

A decorative article must meet the following criteria to be classified as millefiori

glassware in subheading 7013.99.10: 

• The article must be made of glass and must contain a millefiori patte

• The glass millefiori pattern must be inserted into the body of the larg

Generally millefiori articles are in the form of glass paperweights containing the glas

millefiori pattern. 

Items that do not qualify for classification as millefiori glass in subheading 

7013.99.10 

sive. When a

18
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

19

Fig. 13 – 

Millefiori Glassware 

– 7013.99.10 

Gla

o be classified as glassware with metal flecking, a decorative glass article must 

con

bmitted to U.S. Customs. 

ssware with Metal Flecking

Subheading 7013.99.10 also covers glassware with metal flecking. 

T

tain metal flecking inserted into the glass prior to solidification. 

If metal flecking is simply attached to the surface of a glass article, the product 

cannot be classified as glassware with metal flecking in subheading 7013.99.10. 

An importer who believes that a product may be glassware with metal flecking 

should obtain information from the foreign manufacturer providing full details regarding 

the production of the article. This information should be su

SUBHEADING 7013.99.10 VS. OTHER 7013.99 SUBHEADINGS 

As indicated above, decorative glass articles can be classified in subheading 

7013.99.10 only if the glassware meets certain specific criteria. Decorative glassware 

that fails to meet these criteria will be classified under different 7013.99 subheadings 

depending on the unit value of the product. 

Glass decorative articles valued not over thirty cents each are classifiable in 

subheading 7013.99.40, HTSUS. When the unit value is over thirty cents but not over 

three dollars, subheading 7013.99.50 is applicable. When the unit value is over three 

dollars but not over five dollars, the applicable subheading is 7013.99.60 (for an article 

which is cut or engraved) or subheading 7013.99.80 (for an item which is not cut or 

engraved). Glass decorative articles valued over five dollars each are classifiable in 

subheading 7013.99.70 (for articles which are cut or engraved) or subheading 

7013.99.90 (for products which are not cut or engraved). 
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Although a decorative glass article may be described as “colored,” it cannot be 

classified as colored bubble glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 if it fails to meet either 

the criterion for color or the criterion for bubbles, seeds or stones. (See the three 

sec

fied under any of these provisions 

in subheading 7013.99.10 if it fails to meet the criteria for these special types of glass. 

nd 

 Glassware

pic

ne of the 7013.99 

subheadings based on unit value, not in subheading 7013.99.10. 

his special type of glass. (See the section above on Glassware 

with Metal Flecking.) If the metal flecking was not inserted into the glass article prior 

to 

7013.99. To be classified in subheading 7013.99.10, an article must fall within the 

fam

o be classified in subheading 7013.99.10, it is not sufficient for the item to meet the 

req

rinking glasses and other articles of table/kitchen glassware (pitchers, plates, 

dec

tions on Colored Bubble Glassware above.) If it has not been colored prior to 

solidification or if it lacks bubbles, seeds or stones, the article will be classified under 

one of the 7013.99 subheadings based on unit value, not in subheading 7013.99.10. 

Although a decorative glass article may be described as “thread or ribbon,” 

“pictorial,” or “millefiori” glassware, it cannot be classi

(See the sections above on Thread or Ribbon Glassware, Pictorial Glassware a

Millefiori .) If the glass article’s special effect (thread or ribbon effect, 

ture or scene, or millefiori design) is not itself made of glass, the merchandise will be 

classified under one of the 7013.99 subheadings based on unit value, not in subheading 

7013.99.10. In addition, if the special effect was not inserted into the larger glass article 

prior to solidification, the product will be classified under o

Although a decorative glass article may be described as glassware with metal 

flecking, it cannot be classified under this provision in subheading 7013.99.10 if it fails to 

meet the criterion for t

solidification, the product will be classified under one of the 7013.99 subheadings 

based on unit value, not in subheading 7013.99.10. 

 

SUBHEADING 7013.99.10 VS. SUBHEADINGS 7013.29 AND 7013.39 

The eight-digit subheading 7013.99.10 appears under the six-digit subheading 

ily of products covered by the six-digit subheading 7013.99. These products include 

glassware for toilet, office, indoor decoration and similar purposes. 

T

uirements for the special types of glassware covered by this provision. It must also 

fall within the category of decorative glass articles and similar items covered by 

subheading 7013.99. 

D

anters, glass storage articles, bowls used to hold food, etc.) are covered by 

subheadings 7013.29 and 7013.39. These six-digit subheadings are subdivided into 

various eight-digit subheadings that describe the merchandise based on the unit value 

of a single article. See the previous Informed Compliance Publication on Table and 

Kitchen Glassware issued March 2000. 

20
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Drinking glasses and other table/kitchen articles of glass are classifiable in 

sub g 

are 

red 

ibbon effects of glass, pictorial scenes of glass, 

etal flecking). 

The provisions for drinking glasses and other table/kitchen glassware in 

subheadings 7013.29 and 7013.39 do not include any subcategories for colored bubble 

glass and the other special types of glassware. Therefore, even if a drinking glass or 

other article of table/kitchen glassware has special properties (i.e., even if it is colored 

bubble glass, millefiori glass, thread or ribbon glass, picto tal 

flecking), it will be classified under a subheading of 70 ly 

describes the merchandise based on the unit value of a single glass article. Note 

rulings HQ 953016, 04-28-93; NY E84232, 08-11-99. 

Products classifiable as drinking glasses in subheading 7013.29 or other table and 

kitchen glassware in subheading 7013.39 are often entered incorrectly in subheading 

7013.99.10. With a single exception (see the next section), there are no special 

provisions for drinking glasses or other table and kitchen glassware with the special 

properties discussed in this publication. 

headings 7013.29 and 7013.39, and cannot be classified in subheadin

7013.99.10. 

Generally, it is irrelevant if a drinking glass or other article of table/kitchen glassw

has any of the special properties described in subheading 7013.99.10 (i.e., colo

bubble glass, millefiori glass, thread or r

m

rial glass, or glass with me

13.29 or 7013.39 that simp

 

Fig. 14 – Glass Pitcher 

itchenware 

7013.39. The glass swirls or 

ribbons inserted into this item 

prior to solidification are 

irrelevant because 

subheading 7013.99.10 

cannot apply to 

table/k

21
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

SU

Sp

by heading 9906 of the HTSUS. 

 or stones throughout 

are, 

Mil

le in subheading 7013.29) or other article of table/kitchen 

gla

TH

burden of correctly classifying merchandise has shifted from U.S. Customs to the 

BHEADINGS 9906.70.01 AND 9906.70.02: 

ecial Types of Drinking Glasses Made in Mexico

While it is generally irrelevant if drinking glasses or other articles of table and kitchen 

glassware have any of the special properties discussed in this publication, there is one 

exception to this rule. There are temporary HTSUS provisions covering certain special 

types of drinking glasses manufactured in Mexico. These provisions are part of the 

“Temporary Modifications Established Pursuant to the North American Free Trade 

Agreement” which are covered 

Subheading 9906.70.01 covers drinking glasses (provided for in subheading 

7013.29.10 or 7013.29.20) that are made in Mexico and decorated with metal flecking, 

glass pictorial scenes, glass thread-like or ribbon-like effects or millefiori effects. These 

special effects must be embedded or introduced into the drinking glasses prior to 

solidification. 

Subheading 9906.70.02 covers drinking glasses (provided for in subheading 

7013.29.10 or 7013.29.20) that are made in Mexico, “colored prior to solidification and 

ch te arac rized by random distribution of numerous bubbles, seeds

the mass of the glass.” 

Note rulings NY D85630, 12-18-98; NY E87764, 10-15-99. 

The special effects for Mexican-made drinking glasses described in subheadings 

9906.70.01 and 9906.70.02 are identical to the special effects for decorative glass 

articles described in subheading 7013.99.10. Earlier sections of this publication 

(Colored Bubble Glassware, Thread or Ribbon Glassware, Pictorial Glassw

lefiori Glassware, Glassware with Metal Flecking) describe the nature of each of 

these special types of glass. 

It is important to remember that subheadings 9906.70.01 and 9906.70.02 only cover 

Mexican-made drinking glasses with the enumerated special effects. For every other 

drin ing glass (classifiab k

ssware (classifiable in subheading 7013.39), there are no provisions which cover the 

special types of glassware discussed in this publication. 

For all drinking glasses other than Mexican-made drinking glasses and for all other 

table and kitchen glassware made in any country, it is irrelevant if the merchandise has 

any of the special effects discussed in this publication. 

 

E IMPORTER’S RESPONSIBILITIES 

Since the enactment of the Customs Modernization Act in December 1993, the legal 

22
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

importer, who must use reasonable care in carrying out this responsibility. Prior to 

importation, the importer of record is responsible for determining the nature, size, 

material composition, principal use and unit value of the merchandise in question. 

ussed earlier in this publication. 

The importer should understand that a glass article is classifiable as colored bubble 

gla

 the possibility exists that a product is colored bubble glassware, the importer 

sho

 be fully described. In addition the letter 

from the manufacturer should indicate the precise chemical or mineral names of any 

sou

ineralogical names of these substances should be indicated. 

l categories 

in subheading 7013.99.10. 

Articles that fail to meet the qualifications for products classifiable in subheading 

7013.99.10 are often entered incorrectly in this provision, and sometimes products that 

should be classified in this subheading are entered incorrectly under other provisions. 

Importers and brokers should understand the criteria for items classifiable in 

subheading 7013.99.10. 

The importer of merchandise that could be colored bubble glassware should be 

aware of the precise criteria for this merchandise disc

ssware in subheading 7013.99.10 only if it is decorative glassware that has been 

colored prior to solidification and contains numerous bubbles, seeds or stones 

throughout the mass of the glass. 

Products colored on the surface of the glass do not qualify as colored bubble 

glassware. Products produced from recycled glass with no new source of color added 

are not classifiable as colored bubble glassware. In addition, articles that lack bubbles, 

seeds or stones will not be placed in this category. 

If

uld obtain complete information on the letterhead of the manufacturer providing full 

and precise details regarding the manufacturing process for this merchandise. This 

letter should be submitted to U.S. Customs. The information from the producer should 

indicate whether or not the product was colored prior to solidification. The precise 

manner in which the product was colored should

rces of color in the product. The letter should state whether or not these materials 

were inserted into the glassware prior to solidification. 

Furthermore, the producer’s letter should state whether or not any fining agents that 

stifle the formation of bubbles, seeds or stones are present in the glass article. The 

precise chemical or m

An importer of glassware that may be thread or ribbon glass, pictorial glass, millefiori

glass or glass with metal flecking should understand the definitions of these special 

types of glassware. The importer should understand the criteria that must be met 

before a decorative glass article can be classified under any of these specia

The special effect (thread or ribbon, pictorial effect, metal flecking, millefiori design) 

must be inserted into the glass article prior to solidification. (If an effect is etched, 

engraved, attached, drawn or painted on the surface of the glass, the article cannot be 

23
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

classified in subheading 7013.99.10.) In addition, with the exception of the metal 

flecking, the effect itself must be made of glass. 

If the possibility exists that a product is thread or ribbon glassware, pictorial glass, 

millefiori glassware or glass with metal flecking, the importer should submit information 

to U.S. Customs on the letterhead of the manufacturer indicating the precise manner in 

which the article was produced. This letter should state whether or not the effect was 

inserted into the glass article prior to solidification and whether or not the effect itself 

was made of glass. 

When a decorative glass article fails to meet the criteria for the special products

described in subheading 7013.99.10, it will be classified in one of the 7013.99

subheadings that provide for glassware based on the unit value of a single glass a

The importer should be familiar with the subheadings based on unit value. 

rticle. 

porters should understand that subheading 7013.99.10 can only be applied to 

gla

ubheading 7013.99.10 cannot be applied to 

drinking glasses (subheading 7013.29) or other table/kitchen glassware (subheading 

701

rinking glasses (classifiable in subheadings 7013.29.10 and 7013.29.20) that are 

ma

ed in this publication. 

r 

rmation on its use and 

precise composition. 

ruling 

request should include information on the exact manner in which the article was 

pro

The ruling request should address the following questions. Was the product colored 

prior to solidification of the glassware? Was the color simply applied to the surface of 

Im

ss articles for toilet, office, indoor decoration or similar purposes that meet the 

special criteria described in the provision. S

3.39). An importer should not enter a drinking glass or other article of table/kitchen 

glassware in subheading 7013.99.10 even if the item has the properties of one of the 

special types of glassware such as thread or ribbon glass, colored bubble glass, etc. 

D

de in Mexico are the only table/kitchen glass articles subject to temporary provisions 

(subheadings 9906.70.01 and 9906.70.02) that describe the special types of glassware 

(colored bubble glassware, thread and ribbon glassware, etc.). With the exception of 

Mexican-made drinking glasses, it is irrelevant if an article of table/kitchen glassware 

has any of the special properties discuss

Prior to the importation of a particular glass article, an importer or a foreign supplie

who wishes to verify the classification of the product may request a binding ruling from 

U.S. Customs. See Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 CFR 177). A ruling 

request should include a sample of the item as well as info

The request should indicate the unit value at which the glass article will be sold by 

the foreign seller to the American importer. 

If the possibility exists that the product could be colored bubble glassware, the 

duced. The request should indicate the precise manner in which the article was 

colored. 

24
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

the glass? Were the article and the color produced by means of recycled glass? The 

precise chemical or mineralogical names of the 

e. 

mes of 

any

hould include the following information. Was the special effect or 

des

INV

e precise nature and use of the merchandise. Each 

component material of the article should be identified. 

ate depth and capacity or 

volume.) 

 total 

he invoice should state the style number or brand name of the product. 

If the article could be colored bubble glassware, the invoice should indicate the 

recise manner in which the product was colored. Was it colored prior to the 

solidification of the glassware? Was it simply colored on the surface of the glass? 

Were the article and the color produced from recycled glass? 

ruling request should indicate the 

sources of color used in the glasswar

In addition, a ruling request for a product that could be colored bubble glassware 

should indicate whether or not fining agents that stifle the formation of bubbles, seeds or 

stones were introduced into the glass article. The chemical or mineralogical na

 fining agents used in the product should be specified. 

A ruling request on an article which could be one of the other special types of 

glassware – i.e., glassware with metal flecking, thread or ribbon glass, millefiori glass or 

pictorial glass – s

ign inserted into the glassware prior to solidification or simply applied to the surface 

of the glass? Was this effect or design itself made of glass or another material? 

 

The ruling request should state the brand name or style number of the glass article, 

the country of origin and the port at which the product will be imported. 

OICING REQUIREMENTS 

In accordance with Section 141.86 of the Customs Regulations (19 CFR 141.86), 

invoices should describe th

The precise form of the article should be described (e.g., paperweight, figurine, 

vase, pitcher, bowl, etc.). The height of the product should be indicated. (For articles 

that will be used to hold other items, the invoice should indic

The invoice should indicate the unit value at which the article is sold by the foreign 

firm to the American importer, the quantity of the merchandise imported and the

value of this merchandise. The unit value stated on the invoice must be the value of a

single glass article, not the value of several items packed together. 

T

If the article could be one of the special types of glassware under discussion in this 

publication, the invoice should describe the product in a manner that clearly indicates 

this possibility. It would be helpful if the invoice provided as much detail as possible 

about the nature of the item. 

p

25
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

In addition, when the classification of colored bubble glassware is being considered, 

l if the invoice included the following information. What are the precise 

gical names of the sources of color used in the glass? Does the 

it would be helpfu

chemical or geolo

product contain many bubbles, seeds or stones throughout the mass of the glass? Are 

any fining agents that stifle the formation of bubbles, seeds or stones present in the 

glassware? If so, the invoice should indicate the names of these fining agents. 

If the article could be one of the other special types of glassware (thread or ribbon 

glassware, millefiori, pictorial glass or glass with metal flecking), the invoice should 

describe the special effect and indicate whether or not this effect was introduced into 

the glassware prior to solidification. In addition, the invoice should indicate the material 

that was used to make this effect. Was it made of glass or another material? 

26
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

The Internet 

The home page of U.S. Customs and Border Protection on the Internet’s World Wid

Web, provides the trade community with current, relevant information regarding C

operations and items of special interest. The site posts information -- which include

proposed regulations, news releases, publications and notices, etc. -- that can 

searched, read on-line, printed or downlo

e 

BP 

s 

be 

aded to your personal computer. The web site 

as established as a trade-friendly mechanism to assist the importing and exporting 

 help 

ducate international travelers. 

w

community. The web site also links to the home pages of many other agencies whose 

importing or exporting regulations that U.S. Customs and Border Protection helps to 

enforce. The web site also contains a wealth of information of interest to a broader 

public than the trade community. For instance, on June 20, 2001, CBP launched the 

“Know Before You Go” publication and traveler awareness campaign designed to

e

 

The web address of U.S. Customs and Border Protection is http://www.cbp.gov

Customs Regulations 

The current edition of Customs Regulations of the United States is a loose-leaf, 

subscription publication available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. 

(202) 512-1800. A 

ederal Regulations, which incorporates all 

hanges to the Regulations as of April 1, 2003, is also available for sale from the same 

h 

ecords 

out 

egister may be obtained by calling (202) 512-1530 

etween 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time. These notices are also published in the 

weekly ed below. 

usto

he Customs Bulletin and Decisions (“Customs Bulletin”) is a weekly publication that 

ontains decisions, rulings, regulatory proposals, notices and other information of 

interest to the trade community. It also contains decisions issued by the U.S. Court of 

International Trade, as well as customs-related decisions of the U.S. Court of Appeals 

for the Federal Circuit. Each year, the Government Printing Office publishes bound 

volumes of the Customs Bulletin. Subscriptions may be purchased from the 

Superintendent of Documents at the address and phone number listed above. 

Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402; telephone 

bound, 2003 edition of Title 19, Code of F

c

address. All proposed and final regulations are published in the Federal Register, whic

is published daily by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and R

Administration, and distributed by the Superintendent of Documents. Information ab

on-line access to the Federal R

b

Customs Bulletin describ

C ms Bulletin 

T

c

27
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Importing Into the United States 

nd Border Protection and the import community, wherein CBP communicates its 

P web site. Importing Into the United States is also available for 

ale, in single copies or bulk orders, from the Superintendent of Documents by calling 

02) 512-1800, or by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing 

Office,

Inform

U.S. C e 

publica

About:

This publication provides an overview of the importing process and contains general 

information about import requirements. The February 2002 edition of Importing Into the 

United States contains much new and revised material brought about pursuant to the 

Customs Modernization Act (“Mod Act”). The Mod Act has fundamentally altered the 

relationship between importers and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by shifting to 

the importer the legal responsibility for declaring the value, classification, and rate of 

duty applicable to entered merchandise. 

The February 2002 edition contains a section entitled "Informed Compliance." A key 

component of informed compliance is the shared responsibility between U.S. Customs

a

requirements to the importer, and the importer, in turn, uses reasonable care to assure 

that CBP is provided accurate and timely data pertaining to his or her importation. 

Single copies may be obtained from local offices of U.S. Customs and Border 

Protection, or from the Office of Public Affairs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20229. An on-line version is 

available at the CB

s

(2

 P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7054. 

ed Compliance Publications 

ustoms and Border Protection has prepared a number of Informed Complianc

tions in the “What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know 

...” series. Check the Internet web site http://www.cbp.gov for a list of current 

nd related publications such as: 

-Table and Kitchen Glassware. 

a

-Decorative Glassware, 

-New Decisions of Candle Holders v. Decorative Glassware, 

28
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

Value Publications 

ustoms Valuation under the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 is a 96-page book 

he valuation system (a few 

sections of the regulations have been amended subsequent to the publication of the 

book) and questions and answers concerning the valuation system. A copy may be 

obtained from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Regulations and Rulings, 

Value Branch, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, (Mint Annex) NW, Washington, D.C. 20229. 

Customs Valuation Encyclopedia (with updates) is comprised of relevant statutory 

provisions, CBP Regulations implementing the statute, portions of the Customs 

Valuation Code, judicial precedent, and administrative rulings involving application of 

valuation law. A copy may be purchased for a nominal charge from the Superintendent 

of Documents, Government Printing Office, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-

7054. This publication is also available on e Internet web site of U.S. Customs and 

Border Protection. 

The information provided in this publication is for general information 

C

containing a detailed narrative description of the customs valuation system, the customs 

valuation title of the Trade Agreements Act (§402 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended 

by the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (19 U.S.C. §1401a)), the Statement of 

Administrative Action which was sent to the U.S. Congress in conjunction with the TAA, 

regulations (19 C.F.R. §§152.000-152.108) implementing t

th

purposes only. Recognizing that many complicated factors may be 

involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a ruling under 

CBP Regulations, 19 C.F.R. Part 177, or obtain advice from an expert 

(such as a licensed Customs Broker, attorney or consultant) who 

specialize in customs matters. s Reliance solely on the general 

information in this pamphlet may not be considered reasonable care.

Additional information may also be obtained from U.S. Customs and Border Protection 

ports of entry. Please consult your telephone directory for an office near you. The 

listing will be found under U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security. 

29
Colored Bubble Glass (and Other Special Types of Glassware) 

April 2006

30

“Your Comments are Important” 

The Small Business and Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and 10 regional 

Fairness Boards were established to receive comments from small businesses about 

Federal agency enforcement activities and rate each agency’s responsiveness to small 

business. If you wish to comment on the enforcement actions of U.S. Customs and 

Border Protection, call 1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). 

REPORT SMUGGLING 1-800-BE-ALERT OR 1-800-NO-DROGA 

Visit our Internet web site: http://www.cbp.gov