Actually, all of this has been very interesting to read. I've been out of town and without internet access, which is why I haven't chimed in earlier.
Honestly, my reason for saying I didn't think it was TJ Maxx quality is because I spend a lot of my time at auctions, thrift stores, antique stores, and junk shops, and this particular vase just seemed special to me. The fact that it only cost me $1.91 didn't hurt either. I liked it so much I almost decided to keep it in my own collection, so if it doesn't sell, maybe it was meant to be mine. Anyway, I've had the honor of holding a lot of quality pieces of glass in my hand, both antique pieces and newer art glass, and I've gotten to the point where EAPG practically just jumps off the shelves into my hands at thrift shops, and though I can't always tell what will sell on ebay, I can usually tell when a piece of glass is a worthwhile investment. (Though I hate to put it in those terms.)
At the same time, I am definitely NOT an expert. I've only been collecting glass for six years and my husband and I have only been selling on Ebay for a few months. I also have a few TJ Maxx type glass pieces that we got in a box lot at an auction, and I knew at sight that they were nothing special. I wish I could put into words what makes those pieces stand out as TJ Maxx type glass, whereas this piece did not strike me this way, but I can't.
Also, I have been under the impression that a rough pontil mark is not always indicative of a poorer quality glass. Any thoughts?
At any rate, one of my good friends is a glass artist in Washington state, so maybe I should ask her what she thinks of this little vase. Thanks for your input!