Uranium Glass

What is Uranium Glass?

Simply put, uranium glass is glass that has had uranium added to it. The effects of this create colourful glass that, when put under an ultraviolet light, turns fluorescent. Controversially, uranium is the same chemical element that is used in nuclear bombs and power stations. However, there is no need for concern as uranium glass contains considerably less uranium, in fact, only about 2% is used and it is perfectly safe to handle if done so safely and correctly.

A Brief History of Uranium Glass

The invention of uranium glass is often credited to Josef Reidel who first invented it during the 1830's. Later on, during the 1850's, the florescent glass became commercially popular and many manufacturers began to be developed. Its popularity expanded until the 1940's when scientists and the US military discovered the science behind fission and the atomic bomb. As a result, a ban was placed on commercial production as the military wanted all the uranium for the war effort. After the war, the ban was lifted, but manufacturers had already discovered a new way of colouring glass and soon the production became very limited.

Collecting Uranium Glass

Uranium glass is still available to buy today and is a common collectable. It is available to buy from the few existing manufacturers. Shopping for antiques is also a popular way to start or add to a collection. Often people who are not familiar with uranium glass discover that their normal glassware is actually made from the fluorescent glass. You never know, there might be some in your own collection...