Uranium vaseline glass is a distinctive type of uranium glass specifically characterized by its 'yellow' hue, setting it apart from other uranium glass variants that appear in shades of green, custard, or jade. This unique color profile is why it earned the "vaseline" moniker, as its appearance often resembles petroleum jelly.
Understanding Uranium Glass
Uranium glass, often called "vaseline glass" loosely by collectors, is glass infused with a small amount of uranium dioxide for coloring. The uranium content, typically less than 2% by weight, gives the glass a vibrant color and, more notably, a striking fluorescent glow under ultraviolet (UV) light.
The Defining Characteristic: Its Yellow Color
While many types of glass contain uranium and fluoresce, the term "vaseline glass" is reserved for those pieces that present a specific shade of yellow. The reference explicitly states: "But simply put, 'vaseline glass' is uranium glass which is 'yellow' as opposed to other glass of various shades of green, custard, jade, etc." This distinction is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts aiming to accurately identify and categorize their pieces.
Key Characteristics of Vaseline Glass
- Distinct Yellow Hue: The most prominent feature is its yellow color, which can range from a pale, creamy yellow to a deeper, more pronounced yellowish-green.
- Fluorescence under UV Light: Like all uranium glass, vaseline glass exhibits a brilliant, often glowing green or yellow-green fluorescence when exposed to a blacklight (UV light source). This is the definitive test for identification.
- Varied Forms: It was produced in a wide array of functional and decorative items, including tableware, figurines, lamps, and art glass.
History and Popularity
Uranium glass first gained popularity in the mid-19th century and saw its peak production from the 1880s through the 1920s. Its unique color and luminescence captivated consumers, leading to its widespread use by various glass manufacturers across Europe and North America. Production significantly declined after World War II due to regulations on uranium use, making authentic vintage pieces sought after by collectors today.
Identifying Uranium Vaseline Glass
Identifying true vaseline glass requires keen observation and a simple tool: a UV flashlight.
- Visual Inspection: Look for the characteristic yellow color in natural light. It should not appear distinctly green, jade, or custard-colored.
- UV Light Test: Shine a UV light (365nm or 395nm wavelength) on the glass. If it is uranium glass, it will emit a bright, vibrant green glow. If it glows green and the glass is yellow in natural light, it is vaseline glass.
- Absence of Other Colors: Ensure the primary body color is yellow. Decorations might add other colors, but the base glass must be yellow to qualify as vaseline glass.
Vaseline Glass vs. Other Uranium Glass
It's important to differentiate vaseline glass from other types of uranium glass, as the terms are often used interchangeably, albeit inaccurately.
| Characteristic | Vaseline Glass | Other Uranium Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Color | Distinctly yellow (pale to vibrant) | Various shades: green, custard, jade, opaque white, etc. |
| Fluorescence | Strong green glow under UV light | Strong green glow under UV light |
| Origin of Name | Resemblance to petroleum jelly's yellow color | Named for its uranium content |
| Collectibility | Highly sought after for its specific color and glow | Also collectible, but "vaseline" is a specific sub-category |
Safety Considerations
The small amount of uranium in vaseline glass means it is mildly radioactive. However, the radiation levels are extremely low and generally considered safe for handling and display in a home environment. The primary concern, if any, would be from ingesting glass dust, which is unlikely under normal circumstances. For more in-depth information on uranium glass safety, resources from health physics organizations are available here.
Collecting Uranium Vaseline Glass
Collecting vaseline glass has become a popular hobby due to its historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and unique fluorescent property. Pieces are often found in antique shops, estate sales, and online marketplaces. Its distinct color and glowing properties make it a fascinating addition to any glass collection, especially when displayed with proper UV lighting to highlight its luminescence.
