The Radiant Allure and Complex Craft of Vaseline Glass Beads

The History and Beauty of Vaseline Glass Beads

Vaseline glass, also known as uranium glass, is a type of glass that contains small amounts of uranium. This gives it a pale yellowish-green color that resembles petroleum jelly, hence the name “vaseline glass.” The uranium content also makes vaseline glass beads glow bright green under ultraviolet black light.

The use of uranium in glass dates back to the mid-19th century when glassmakers discovered that adding uranium oxide gave glass a striking fluorescent quality. At first, uranium was added for its rich yellowish-green color rather than its fluorescent properties. However, once electric black lights became available in the early 20th century, the radioactive glow of vaseline glass became an exciting novelty.

The Early Years of Vaseline Glass Beadmaking

Some of the earliest vaseline glass beads were produced in the 1830s by glassmakers in Europe. These early glass beads were manually wound glass rods that were sliced into small bead-like sections. Bohemia and Silesia (now part of the Czech Republic) were the predominant hubs for glass beadmaking in Europe.

In the late 19th century, vaseline glass beads started gaining popularity in the United States as well. Jaros Hyal Art Glass Company in Brooklyn, New York claimed to have invented uranium glass beads in the 1870s. Other prominent vaseline glass beadmakers included Fenton Art Glass Company and Westmoreland Glass Company.

The Allure of Vaseline Glass in the Early 1900s

The radiant glow of uranium glass under UV light captured the fascination of glass artisans and collectors in the early 20th century. This led to a surge of vaseline glass production, including elaborate glass beads, household dishware, and art glass pieces.

Glass beadmakers started producing more ornate lampworked vaseline beads. Czechoslovakia and other parts of Europe remained major exporters of vaseline beads to the US market. Domestic American glass companies also started specializing in striking vaseline art glass beads of all shapes, sizes, and colors.

Collecting Vaseline Glass Beads Today

After enjoying immense popularity for over a century, vaseline glass has become a beloved collectible today. Vaseline glass beads are especially prized for their eye-catching glow and intricate craftsmanship.

Where to Find Vaseline Glass Beads

Antique shops, estate sales, online auctions, and specialist glass dealers are good places to find vintage vaseline glass beads. Mid-century and contemporary vaseline beads can also be purchased from select art glass artists who work with uranium glass.

Millefiori vaseline beads displaying colorful floral patterns are particularly rare and desirable to collectors. Intricately sculpted figurines and animal beads made out of vaseline glass are also valuable finds.

Factors Impacting Rarity and Value

As with most antiques, age, condition, craftsmanship, and rarity determine the value of vaseline glass beads in the collectors’ market. Beads made by renowned glassmakers tend to be more prized. Unique shapes, patterns, coloring, and UV glow increase value as well.

Since vaseline glass contains uranium, some collectors also value beads based on their brightness under black light. However, the uranium content of most vaseline glass is negligible and not a health hazard.

Safely Displaying and Storing Vaseline Beads

Direct and prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause vaseline glass to lose its uranium content and fluorescent properties over time. So display vaseline beads in dark curio cabinets or dimly lit shelves to preserve their bright glow.

To safely store them long-term, wrap vaseline beads in acid-free tissue paper and keep in an airtight container out of direct light. Take care not to chip or scratch the beads while handling and cleaning them.

The Timeless Allure of Vaseline Glass

With its warm, yellowish hue and otherworldly glow, it’s easy to see why vaseline glass has been treasured for over 150 years. Vaseline glass beads encapsulate the beauty and wonder that makes this glass so captivating.

The radiant fluorescence under UV lighting gives vaseline glass an almost magical quality. But it’s also the intricate artistry and styles spanning different eras that make vaseline glass beads appealing to serious collectors.

As long as the luminous charm of vaseline glass lives on, these beads will continue to mesmerize glass artisans and collectors alike for many more decades to come.

FAQs

Why is vaseline glass called that?

Vaseline glass gets its name from vaseline petroleum jelly because it has a pale yellowish-green color that resembles vaseline. The color comes from the uranium oxide content in the glass.

Is vaseline glass radioactive?

Vaseline glass contains very low levels of radiation from the uranium used to color it. The miniscule amounts are not considered dangerous or a health risk for collectors.

What makes vaseline glass glow?

The uranium oxide used to color vaseline glass makes it glow bright green under ultraviolet black light. This fluorescent reaction under UV light is what makes vaseline glass so unique.

Where can I find antique vaseline glass beads?

Online auctions, estate sales, antique stores, and specialist glass dealers are good places to find vintage or antique vaseline glass beads for your collection.