Cameo glass can be defined as any glassware in which the surface has been cut away to leave a design in relief. Cutting is accomplished by the use of hand-cutting tools, wheel cutting, and hydrofluoric acid. This ware can be clear or colored glass of a single layer, or glass with multiple layers of clear or colored glass. Custard glass was manufactured in the United States for a period of about 30 years. Harry Northwood was the largest manufacturer of custard glass, but it was also manufactured by the Heisey Glass Company, Diamond Glass Company, Fenton Art Glass Company and a number of others.
Most pieces have fiery opalescence when held to the light.
Both the color and glow of this glassware came from the use of uranium salts in the glass. It is generally a heavy type pressed glass made in a variety of patterns. Another one of the more popular patterns is the hobnail pattern. A variety of types exist. Many of the fine early examples were produced by Hobbs, Brockunier and Company, Wheeling, West Virginia, and the New England Glass Company.