Uranium glass, also known as Vaseline glass or depression glass, is a type of glass that contains uranium oxide. This gives the glass a characteristic yellow or green glow under ultraviolet light. Uranium glass was popular from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, and it is highly collectible today. If you’re interested in identifying uranium glass, there are several key characteristics to look for.
1. Check for UV Reactivity
One of the easiest ways to identify uranium glass is to check for its unique glow under ultraviolet (UV) light. The presence of uranium in the glass causes it to fluoresce a bright green or yellow color when exposed to UV light. You can use a black light or UV light to test various pieces of glass in your collection.
- Use a black light: Hold a black light over the glass and observe any glowing green or yellow areas.
- Look for a characteristic glow: Uranium glass will emit a distinctive glow under UV light that is not present in other types of glass.
2. Examine the Color
Uranium glass is typically green or yellow in color, ranging from pale shades to deeper hues. The color can vary depending on the amount of uranium oxide used in the glass production. Some pieces may also have a slight blue or pink tint due to impurities in the glass. When identifying uranium glass based on color, keep in mind that not all green or yellow glass contains uranium.
- Look for shades of green: Uranium glass often has a distinct green hue, which can range from light lime green to deep emerald green.
- Check for yellow tones: Some uranium glass pieces may have a yellow tint, especially in certain lighting conditions.
3. Feel the Weight
Uranium glass is typically heavier than modern glassware due to its higher lead content. When holding a piece of glass in your hand, compare its weight to other glass items in your collection. Uranium glass may feel denser and more substantial than non-uranium glass pieces of similar size.
- Compare weights: Hold a suspected uranium glass piece alongside a piece of modern glassware to feel the difference in weight.
- Notice the density: Uranium glass often feels heavier and more solid due to its lead content.
4. Look for Design Patterns
Many uranium glass pieces feature distinctive design patterns, such as ribbed edges, geometric shapes, or intricate etchings. These patterns can help you identify uranium glass based on visual characteristics alone. Some popular uranium glass patterns include swirls, florals, and Art Deco motifs.
- Identify unique patterns: Study the design details on the glass to see if they match known uranium glass patterns.
- Compare with reference materials: Use books or online resources to compare the patterns on your glass pieces with documented uranium glass designs.
5. Seek Expert VerificationIf you’re still unsure about whether a glass piece contains uranium, consider seeking expert verification. Glass experts, antique dealers, and specialized collectors can help you identify uranium glass based on their knowledge and experience. They may use specialized tools or testing methods to confirm the presence of uranium in the glass.- Consult with professionals: Reach out to experts in the field of antique glassware for assistance in identifying uranium glass.
- Attend appraisals or shows: Visit antique shows or appraisal events where experts can examine your glass pieces in person.
Conclusion
Identifying uranium glass can be a fascinating journey for collectors and enthusiasts. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can confidently differentiate uranium glass from other types of glassware. Remember to test for UV reactivity, examine the color and weight, look for design patterns, and seek expert verification if needed. With practice and patience, you’ll become skilled at identifying uranium glass and adding valuable pieces to your collection.
