Why was glass expensive in Victorian era?

In the Victorian era, glass was expensive due to the labor-intensive production process, which involved skilled craftsmanship and intricate techniques. The raw materials, such as silica, soda ash, and limestone, were not always readily available, and transportation costs added to the expense. Additionally, the high demand for decorative and functional glassware in Victorian households further drove up prices, making finely crafted glass items a luxury that only the wealthier classes could afford.