In theory, yes.  On all backstamps, there are seemingly random dots and dashes that align with certain letters or words in the stamp.  If one happened to know how to interpret these, they should tell what month and year the item was made.  This ‘secret code’ is not readily available, however!  But in broader terms, the style and wording of the backstamps over the years has changed many times, and it’s possible to differentiate between an older stamp and a newer one.  This won’t yield precise dates, but it’s a start anyway.

Is Gemco Ware associated with Westinghouse?

Very often the word ‘Westinghouse’ is associated with Gemco and this stems from the interpretation of the logo on many of Gemco’s products.  But all things considered, this is quite frankly a misinterpretation and Gemco's 'Westinghouse promotion' is almost certainly a myth. 

What’s the difference between Mediterraneo and Oceanview?  What about Bahia?

In a nutshell, ‘Mediterraneo is the new Oceanview’.  There is no detectable difference in the pattern on the dinner plates.  The major difference is in the bread & butter and luncheon plates ...

Which products made by Corning are safe for microwave use?

Many products still in use today were made before the advent of the microwave oven and they bear no warnings or approvals for microwave use.  So it is important to recognize which items are microwave-safe by understanding Corning’s different glass formulas.  The consequences of making a mistake ... 

Aren’t a lot of patterns known by 2 or more names, or nicknames?

99.9% of patterns have an official name, and many have earned nicknames over the years.  Nicknames might have been useful at a time when good pattern ID information was non-existent, but nowadays it is fairly easy to find the correct names and the correct spelling too.  Personally, I equate nicknames with misinformation and for that reason, there are no references to specific nicknames on this site.

Are there two types of Spring Blossom Green Refrigerator Dishes?

Oddly enough, yes.  In 1977 the pattern on this set was altered in a very subtle way.  It is possible to recognize which specific refrigerator dish designs belong together, since solid points of reference exist in the 1976, 1977 and 1978 catalogues.  The set shown in 1976 is different than those depicted in 1977 and 1978.  So it can be concluded that ...

What makes Autumn Harvest unique amongst other Pyrex patterns?

It is the only non-Corelle pattern which includes a range of Tabletop Ware, and it is the only Pyrex pattern to decorate the lids of Store 'N' See canisters...