Hidden Dangers: The Rise of Radioactive Elements in Jewelry
19th-century 'Uranium Glass' glows bright green under UV light as it was made with small amounts of uranium.
In the early and mid-20th century, a type of glass known as uranium glass, also popularly referred to as vaseline or canary glass, captivated the public with its unique glowing green color. This distinctive characteristic was due to tiny amounts of uranium in the glass composition.
Origins and Popularity
The practice of adding uranium to glass began in the 1830s. The resulting glow under ultraviolet (UV) light made these items highly attractive and popular. Uranium glass was used in various items, including jewelry, dishes, and decorative ornaments. Despite its radioactive properties being unknown at the time, it quickly became a hit among consumers.
Discovery of Radioactivity
It wasn’t until 1896 that French physicist Henri Becquerel discovered uranium’s radioactive properties. By this time, uranium glass had already been used for several decades. Even after understanding that exposure to large amounts could be harmful by the early 20th century, its use continued unabated.
Impact of World War II
The widespread use of uranium in glass production persisted until World War II, when governments requisitioned all available uranium supplies for the war effort. During its peak usage period, it is estimated that up to 25% of all general-use glasses contain uranium.
Health Risks and Safety
Although it might seem strange today, these trim levels of uranium did not pose significant hazards for users because they were insufficiently potent. However, using them regularly or storing foodstuffs in such containers could have posed more severe health risks over time.
Modern-Day Collectibility
Today, antique samples of uranium glass are collectible items often used scientifically due to their mildly radioactive properties. Interestingly, legitimate uranium glass items can still be purchased today, mainly through antique sellers. Finding pieces in good condition can be somewhat challenging due to their age.
Conclusion
Despite concerns about radioactivity, objects like marbles made from uranium glass generally emit less radiation than many people would typically be exposed to in daily life globally. This makes them relatively safe collectibles for enthusiasts who appreciate their historical significance and unique aesthetic appeal.