Jigger Price Guide

Perfect pours for pennies

A jigger is a small serving utensil that typically holds 1 1/2 ounces, but can also contain other volumes. Antique or silver jiggers may include a handle as well. The term is also used to describe the quantity of liquid such a measure holds, as in "a jigger of whiskey."

Basic single or double jigger

Cost: Less than $5

A jigger can be as simple as a small plastic cup, available at any bar supply store for a few dollars. Glass jiggers work well in nearly situation, but since they can break, care must be taken when pouring with one. Since they are so inexpensive, consider buying a few in bright colored glass or plastic to give you bar kit a splash of energy. Mix and match with brightly colored barware, creating a whimsical feeling. Make sure to dry each glass with a lint-free towel for maximum luster.

Sterling silver

Cost: $35-$150

Sterling silver bar accessories convey a sense of old-world charm, reminiscent as they are of the time of butlers and continental hospitality. Although these pieces cost significantly more, they make up for their higher cost by imparting a sense of luxury and sophistication. Furthermore, many reasonably priced bar sets include a jigger, a drink shaker, an ice scoop, a bar knife, a cap lifter, and a storage case, completing the look for less. Antique pieces can fetch a high price on auction sites, with rare pieces commanding hundreds of dollars and complete vintage sets bringing in thousands.

Antique jiggers

Cost: $20-$150

Many bar sets contain pieces crafted of Depression glass. Depression glass consists of several types of inexpensively produced glassware from the mid-20th century, including carnival glass, milk glass, uranium glass, satin glass, and pressed glass. Made in many translucent colors, primarily amethyst, marigold, cobalt, green, and red, the glass took its name from the carnivals where it was often offered as a prize. Vaseline glass and uranium glass actually contain traces of uranium salts (uranium dioxide). All these varieties of antique glass can be found in yard sales, antique shops, and auction sites. Aside from helping you make better drinks, they can serve as conversation pieces and lend a bar an air of cosmopolitan mystique. Keep these pieces on display on top of the bar when they are not in use.

More information on jiggers