Lavender sea glass primarily originates from antique glass items that contained manganese, which, over many years, turned purple or lavender due to extended exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays before becoming sea glass.
The "Sun Purple" Phenomenon
The distinctive lavender hue of this rare sea glass is a result of a fascinating chemical reaction known as "sun purple" or "amethyst glass."- Manganese as a Clarifying Agent: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, manufacturers frequently added manganese dioxide to glass batches. Its primary purpose was to act as a clarifying agent, helping to remove impurities and produce crystal-clear glass. Without manganese, glass often had a subtle greenish or brownish tint due to iron impurities.
- UV Light Interaction: While initially clear, glass containing manganese undergoes a chemical change when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, such as that found in sunlight. Over prolonged periods—often decades—the manganese within the glass oxidizes, causing the glass to gradually turn shades of purple, ranging from pale lavender to deep amethyst. This is why some antique bottles and glassware develop that lovely lavender glow over time.
Common sources of this specific type of glass that eventually become lavender sea glass include:
- Antique medicine bottles: Many old pharmaceutical and tonic bottles from the turn of the century used manganese-laced glass.
- Vintage cosmetic jars: Jars for creams, ointments, and perfumes are often found with this characteristic purple tint.
- Early 20th-century clear glass tableware: Some dishes, pitchers, and other clear household items produced during this period also contained manganese.
From Glass to Sea Glass
Once these antique glass items were discarded or lost, they made their way into the ocean. The relentless tumbling action of waves, sand, and rocks over decades or even centuries smoothed their sharp edges, frosted their surfaces, and transformed them into the coveted pieces of sea glass collectors adore. Each piece of lavender sea glass is a testament to both historical manufacturing practices and the powerful artistry of the ocean.Identifying Authentic Lavender Sea Glass
Understanding the origins of lavender sea glass also helps in identifying authentic pieces. True sun-purpled glass will have an even color distribution, unlike artificially colored glass.| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Color Origin | Natural oxidation of manganese due to UV light (sunlight) exposure. |
| Typical Thickness | Often medium to thick, reflecting the common gauges of antique bottles and jars. |
| Surface | Usually frosty and pitted due to natural tumbling; can show signs of age like faint iridescent sheens. |
| Shape | Fragments often retain curves or patterns from original bottles, like neck pieces, base shards, or parts with embossed lettering. |
| Rarity | Considered rare to very rare compared to common colors (green, white, brown), making it highly sought after by collectors. |
