Vaseline glass is a distinctive type of glass known for its characteristic clear, yellow, or yellowish-green hue and its remarkable fluorescent glow under ultraviolet light.
Visual Characteristics of Vaseline Glass
When examining Vaseline glass, you'll typically observe a range of colors from almost transparent to a vibrant, buttery yellow or a striking yellowish-green. This specific coloration is not just aesthetic; it's a direct result of its unique composition.
- Color Range: Vaseline glass pieces can appear:
- Clear: Almost colorless, but with a subtle yellowish tint.
- Yellow: Ranging from a pale lemon yellow to a deeper, richer yellow, often resembling petroleum jelly (hence the name "Vaseline").
- Yellowish-Green: A vibrant, almost neon yellowish-green that is particularly sought after.
The Defining Feature: UV Reactivity
What truly sets Vaseline glass apart from other types of yellowish or green glass is its response to ultraviolet (UV) light. While many kinds of glass might share a similar yellowish-green tint, only true Vaseline glass will exhibit a bright, fluorescent green glow when exposed to a UV light source (like a black light). This phenomenon occurs because the glass contains a small amount of uranium dioxide, typically ranging from 0.1% to 25%. This uranium content is harmless in finished glass pieces but is responsible for the unique luminescence.
Key Identifiers of Vaseline Glass:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Colors | Clear, yellow, or yellowish-green. |
| Composition | Contains 0.1% to 25% uranium dioxide. |
| UV Reaction | Glows bright fluorescent green when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. This is its most distinctive feature. |
Understanding these visual cues and, most importantly, testing for the UV glow, are crucial for identifying genuine Vaseline glass.
