The Fascinating Allure & History of Uranium Glass

Uranium glass, sometimes referred to as Vaseline glass, is a captivating material with a rich history and distinctive glow. Composed of glass infused with uranium oxide, this material is prized for its vibrant green fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light.

What is the best wavelength of UV light (blacklight) to find uranium glass?

The best wavelength of UV light to detect uranium glass is definitely 395nm. If you're new to uranium glass it can be confusing.

There are other glass items containing manganese (not to be confused with magnesium) that fluoresce under 365nm. To a seasoned collector the pale green glow of manganese is easy to spot, but not for the newbies. So do yourself a favor and get a 395nm flashlight for uranium glass hunting, and save that 365nm for lighting up your fluorescing crystals.

Uranium Glass vs. Vaseline Glass:

Technically, they're both uranium glass. Vaseline glass is a type of uranium glass, though not all uranium glass is vaseline glass.

Did you know there are other types of uranium glass?

Uranium glass is typically categorized based on its composition, purpose, and appearance. While there isn't a universally agreed-upon classification system, the categories can generally be divided into the following.

1. Flourescent Glass

Uranium glass known for its fluorescence under UV (black) light due to the uranium content.

2. color variations

Vaseline Glass: Known for its yellow-green color and oily appearance

Custard Glass: Opaque or semi-opaque glass with a creamy color

Canary Glass: Bright yellow glass with a clear or translucent appearance.

Something else to note are opaline variations that glow, burmese, as well as some jadite (not all jadite dishes glow and not all green depression era dishes glow either).

3. Historical Variations

Pre-WWI Uranium Glass: Made before the restrictions on uranium use in the early 20th century.

Post-WWII Uranium Glass: Produced after WWII, often with reduced uranium content.

4. Composition Variations

Pure Uranium Glass: Glass with uranium oxide content (up to roughly 2%).

Mixed Uranium Glass: Glass combined with other elements or additives to alter color or transperency.

Collectors define additional sugcategories based on regional production, specific manufacturers, unique design features, and more specific manufacturing dates.

A Collectible Treasure

Uranium glass is highly sought after by collectors, especially those interested in vintage housewares and jewelry. Jewelry made from uranium glass is especially prized for its unique, glowing charm, making it a standout addition to any collection. Some jewelry components even present an ethereal type glow under direct sunlight! Whether you're drawn to the vivid green fluorescence, or the thought of having something that's slightly radioactive. It offers a fascinating window into the past and a magical aesthetic perfect for today's collectors.

With its intriguing blend of art, history, and a touch of mystery, uranium glass jewelry is sure to captivate any enthusiast of vintage treasures.

Where Did Uranium Glass Come From?

Uranium glass comes from all around the world. It is noted to have been produced in France, The United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, The United States, and many other countries. However the most notable location of manufacture (in my opinion) has to be the Czech Republic, formerly know as Czechoslovakia, and the surrounding areas.

A Brief History of Uranium Glass

Early History

Small amounts of uranium oxide were found in glass from Roman mosaics in the 1st century. German chemist Martin Klaproth identified the element in 1789, and some say he may have experimented with it as a glass additive.

1830s

Josef Reidel is often credited with inventing uranium glass, which he named after his wife. His factory in Bohemia produced yellowish-green and yellow uranium glass between 1830-1848.

1840s

Uranium glass became popular in Europe, and production spread throughout the continent.

1880s

Uranium glass became popular in the United States and the Whitefriars Glass Company in London was one of the first to bring it to the mass market.

World War II

The US Government halted production of uranium glass due to uranium becoming highly regulated and being confiscated for the Manhattan Project.

1958

Uranium was deregulated, and production resumed using depleted uranium instead of natural uranium.

If you've made it this far, kudos to your attention span. You must be just as interested in this stuff as I am. Obviously this isn't everything there is to know. Feel free to reach out if you'd like to chat more about this fascinating subject!

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