Do you have some old vintage yellow-green glassware items in your attic that seem to be glowing in the light? If yes, think yourself lucky because you might’ve just found the very popular uranium glass, which could sell for as much as $1,500, or even more!
But the thing is, not every yellow-green glass that glows in a real vintage piece. Some are just modern replicas or glass with a different composition that aren’t really valuable.
That’s why I curated this detailed guide that will not only help you identify real uranium glass, but also share tips to date those pieces and show you some really valuable finds you might want to look out for!
What Is Uranium Glass?
Basically, uranium glass is made by mixing small amounts of uranium oxide in glass before melting. Most pieces contain trace amounts to 2% uranium, though some early 1900s pieces went wild with up to 25% uranium content, too.
This unique glass was discovered in 1789 by a German chemist named Martin Heinrich Klaproth, who also figured out that it made glass glow yellow-green. But the commercial production only began around 1830 when Josef Reidel started making it in Bohemia.
He named his creations “Annagelb” (yellow) and “Annagrun” (yellow-green) after his daughter Anna Maria. The 1880s to 1920s were the golden age of uranium glass. During the Depression, companies gave away pieces free with cereal boxes and soap.
But during World War II, the government seized all uranium for the Manhattan Project from 1942 to 1958. When production started again in 1959, they used depleted uranium instead, which wasn’t as popular.
Tips to Identify & Date Real Uranium Glass!
By the definition, it may seem easy to spot REAL uranium glass, but you can’t rely on just looking at it to identify it. While the color gives you a clue, it’s not enough proof since other glass types can look similar.
So, here is a detailed overview of all the other clues that will not only help you spot genuine uranium glass but also check if it’s really antique or not!
1. Physical Characteristics
Authentic uranium glass possesses some unique physical features, like weight, surface finish, and glow, that can help you distinguish it from remakes or fake uranium glassware. Here are the things you need to look for:
The UV Light Test:
The best way to identify real uranium glass is the UV light test. All you need is a UV flashlight (one with a 365 nm wavelength is optimal). When you wave it over uranium glass, you will see an immediate bright green glow. If it doesn’t glow green, then it’s not Uranium glass.
The glass seems to glow from inside, which is very different from the no or faint glow that would be seen with regular glass.
Note: Some uranium will not glow much or at all, but some will glow, but with cerium oxide rather than uranium. That’s why you need to check other characteristics, too.
Weight and Feel:
Heaviness is the first clue. Because of the uranium content, authentic pieces are heavier and denser than regular glass of the same size. Second, the surface has to be even with neat lines of molding. Copies are often bumpy or have sloppy molding.
Glass Colors:
Without special lighting, uranium glass usually looks yellowish-green or lime-green. However, you can also expect to see other tint colors based on various glass types, including:
- Vaseline Glass: That petroleum jelly color, transparent yellow to yellow-green.
- Custard Glass: Creamy white and opaque. The old stuff shows a red glow around the edges when you hold it up to light.
- Burmese Glass: Pink fading to white, with that matte finish from acid treatment.
- Jadeite Glass: Green-white opaque. They made this by adding green glass scraps to custard glass.
2. Important Markings
Once you’re sure your uranium glass piece is real, you can find out if it’s really antique or vintage. The most reliable clue for doing so is markings.
Many uranium glass pieces were made by well-known glass companies, which likely left a maker’s mark on the bottom. It can be an embossed or etched logo, name, or symbol. Additional marks, including mold numbers and stamped logos, may also be seen and researched to trace production dates.
Below are a couple of the most reputable uranium glass makers, their significant markings & notable patterns:
1. Fenton Art Glass Company (1905–2011)
Fenton started marking their pieces in 1974, with an oval logo on the bottom and the numbers under the logo for dating. (8 under the “n” means it’s from the 1980s, 9 means 1990s, and so on!)
Famous Fenton uranium glass patterns include Hobnail, Coin Dot, Persian Medallion, and Daisy & Button. Their custard and Burmese glass contain uranium and glow brilliantly.
2. Anchor Hocking/Hocking Glass Company (1905-present)
These guys rarely marked their Depression-era pieces, so you’ll need to identify them by patterns. Major uranium glass patterns include:
- Cameo “Ballerina” (1930-1934)
- Princess (1931-1935)
- Block Optic (1929-1933)
- Miss America (1935-1938)
- Royal Lace (1934-1941)
3. Fostoria Glass Company (1887-1986)
Fostoria also marked very few of their pieces, so you need to identify them by shape and pattern, and mainly their “canary” color. Some of the most popular patterns are:
- American (1915-1982)
- Navarre (1936-1982)
- June: Popular pattern in topaz (yellow) and other colors (1928-1952)
- Pioneer: Early uranium pattern from the 1920s
4. Imperial Glass Company (1901-1984)
Imperial used various markings on their pieces, including “Imperial” in script, crossed “IG”, and the “Imperial Iron Cross” (1913 onwards).
The company is known for iconic patterns, such as:
- Beaded Block (1927-1935)
- Cape Cod
- Candlewick
5. Jeannette Glass Company
Jeannette’s uranium glass pieces are often found in dinnerware sets. While most pieces are unmarked, you may occasionally find some pieces with a circular “J” in a triangle or the word “Jeannette” on the base. Their most popular patterns include:
- Cube (or Cubist)
- Cherry Blossom
- Sunflower
6. Duncan & Miller Glass Company (1900s-1955)
You may find the “D&M” mark or the full company name on these pieces. Known for elegant pressed patterns and some uranium pieces in their colored glass lines.
As you noticed, many (or most) uranium glassware pieces aren’t marked. In such cases, you can try to date them based on their designs and patterns.
3. Designs & Patterns
The designs, patterns, and shapes of uranium glassware changed with time, influenced by major art styles popular in that period. Based on the pattern details, you can trace the age and manufacturing date or period of your piece (even if you can’t spot the specific pattern).
The most common uranium glass styles are:
- Victorian Era Glassware (1837-1901): These have heavy, ornate pressed designs and lots of detailing. Pitchers, compotes, and covered dishes are some typical items. Original custard glass of this period shows red opalescence at the edge.
- Art Nouveau Uranium Glass (1890-1910): The designs in Art Nouveau pieces show sinuous organic forms with flowers, vines, and nature themes. Flower-form vases, leafy designs, etc., are common.
- Art Deco Glass (1920s-1930s): This glass style is marked by sharp geometric patterns, angular designs, and machine-age styling. You’ll also notice greener, vibrant glows and very sharp crystal cuts on these pieces.
- Depression Era (1929-1939): Simple, functional pieces mass-produced as giveaways. Look for patterns like Royal Lace, Princess, and Cameo. These were meant for everyday use, not display.
4. Authenticity Signs
Genuine antique or vintage uranium glass pieces generally show unique aging signs that modern pieces lack. These age signs are natural patina and gentle surface wear that are appropriate for the usage of the item.
You can also see some characteristic flaws, like tiny bubbles or irregularities in the glass. Such hints could be representative of pre-machinery production and are highly appreciated by collectors.
Finding the Real Value of Vintage Uranium Glass?
The typical value of a vintage uranium glass item can vary anywhere from $5 to $500, depending on various factors, like:
- Age and History: The older pieces before World War II are usually more valuable than post-war or new ones, in general. Having some form of proof of how an item has originated or to whom it previously belonged is also valuable.
- Condition: Condition matters the most. Damages like chips, cracks, or heavy scratches can really hurt a uranium glass piece’s value. “Sick glass” (cloudy, milky, or weeping appearance) is another thing that can reduce the worth.
- Color & Glow: The brighter the color and the stronger the green glow under UV light, the more valuable the uranium glass is. Weak or dull glow makes it less valuable.
- Rarity: Limited-production series of out-of-production uranium glassware and limited issues are most desirable. Also desirable and valuable are pieces with unique colors or unusual shapes, like serving items, figural items, or unique lamp shades.
- Brand Value: Pieces from well-known manufacturers always bring higher prices. Some names include Fenton, Fostorian, Baccarat, Imperial, Westmoreland, Hockings, and Millersburg.
13 Most Valuable Vintage Uranium Glass Items to Find
Now that you know how to spot real, authentic antique or vintage uranium glass, here are some valuable pieces worth finding in your homes or garage sales!
1. Silver Plate Uranium Glass Bird Figurial Vase (1890)
A highly elaborate piece that combines Victorian-era craftsmanship with uranium glass! This is a cuboidal vaseline glass vase held inside a silver-plated metal framework that would have glowed under gaslight. The metal holder shows detailed bird motifs and leaf carving, a touch of Victorian themes.
Victorian-era uranium glass pieces are highly prized due to their age and craftsmanship. Such complex pieces with high-end materials are extremely valuable, reaching $1,500 or even more, like this piece sold for over $1,820!
2. Livio Seguso Murano Uranium Glass Vase
This freeform vaseline glass vase from the 1960s is designed by the renowned sculptor Livio Seguso from Murano, Italy. The trumpet-like flared form with its thick, heavy construction shows Seguso’s expertise in sommerso technique (layering different colored glasses).
The mid-century modern design with uranium content makes these pieces super rare and collectible. Thanks to their historical roots, Murano uranium pieces, especially by popular artists, can be worth $300 to $700 today.
3. Jadeite Green Uranium Milk Glass Vase by McKee
This large 8-inch Sarah vase is a piece of McKee Glass Company’s production of opaque uranium glass, often called jadeite green. Unlike transparent uranium glass, this opaque version creates a softer, more subtle glow under UV light.
These vases generally have a ruffled rim and a substantial size. McKee was known for producing practical yet attractive glassware; no wonder their uranium glass pieces sell for hundreds.
4. Cat on Basket Lidded Dish by Westmoreland
This ornate dish featuring a cute cat sitting on a decorative basket on the lid is a true example of Westmoreland Glass Company’s popular figural pieces and novelty items. The bright glow under UV light and the whimsical design make it appealing to both animal lovers and uranium glass collectors; no wonder it sold for $450!
5. Handmade Uranium Glass Water Bottle by Blenko
Nothing is prettier and more desirable than a handmade uranium glass bottle. Blenko Glass is known for its skilled craftsmanship and unique color formulations. This water bottle form, with its flared rim, proves it. Handmade vintage uranium glass pieces like this can be a great deal, up to $500 or more!
6. Uranium Glass Owl Candy Dish by Imperial Glass Company
This figural owl candy dish from Imperial Glass Company shows their skill at creating novelty pieces in their distinctive green uranium glass. The owl’s detailed feathers and realistic proportions make it both functional and decorative.
Imperial Glass Company was organized in 1901 and was known for its carnival and stretch glass production. Their uranium glass pieces from this era are becoming increasingly collectible, especially animal-shaped candy dishes like this example.
7. Fenton Uranium Hobnail Trumpet Epergne Vase
Fenton started making vaseline glass in the 1930s, with their famous hobnail pattern beginning in 1941. This trumpet vase features the traditional raised bumps (hobnails) that go from large at the lip to small, raindrop-sized towards the bottom.
Fenton based their hobnail pattern on Victorian-era “dew drop” glass, and these pieces remain popular with collectors today, selling for $50 to $500+!
8. Baccarat Gilded Enamel Uranium Glass Napoleon Goblet
This goblet features the iconic Harcourt pattern, created by Baccarat in 1841, and has been chosen by historical icons since the age of Napoleon III. The hexagonal base with gilded border and structured faceted design shows why Baccarat was a master of cutting and decorative techniques.
These pieces, combining uranium glass with precious metal decoration, were luxury items and are considered highly desirable and valuable today.
8. Bohemian Uranium Glass Scent Bottle with Silver Accents
This elegant perfume bottle gives a glimpse of 19th-century Bohemian craftsmanship, with uranium glass decorated with flowers and gilded enamel. These were high-end pieces, so you’ll see the use of precious metals, like silver metalwork and enamel decoration in this piece, which makes them valuable!
9. Swan-Shaped Uranium Glass Bowl By Duncan & Miller
Duncan & Miller’s figural uranium glass pieces are highly sought after by collectors, like this swan-shaped bowl sold for almost $250! The yellow-green vaseline coloring and the swan’s elongated neck make this an elegant decorative piece.
Original Duncan & Miller pieces are becoming increasingly rare, making such pristine condition pieces a valuable find! You may occasionally see a marking on D&M pieces.
10. Uranium Glass Handkerchief Bowl by Fostoria
This bright yellow-green piece is from Fostoria’s Heirloom pattern, made from 1958-1970, with the yellow opalescent vaseline color only produced until 1963. The handkerchief style features a crimped, ruffled edge that looks like folds of fabric, giving it that distinctive flowing look.
The uranium content makes it glow bright green under UV light. These bowls were popular mid-century decorative pieces and today command $100 to $400 due to their limited production period and unique look.
11. Ribbed Jadeite Uranium Glass Canister
This canister is a true example of Anchor Hocking’s unique uranium-containing jadeite production in the 1930s, before they switched to non-uranium Fire-King production in 1942. It’s a simple, ribbed canister with a dome-top lid, sold for almost $190!
Collector’s Tip: Early Anchor Hocking jadeite will glow under UV light because it was made before World War II, when uranium was still used.
12. Queen Anne Colony Candlestick by Fostoria
This elegant candlestick shows Fostoria’s Queen Anne Colony pattern, featuring the distinctive swirled ribbing and flame-shaped design. The uranium content creates the characteristic green glow under black light.
Fostoria only made these candle holders in certain colors for limited periods, making them harder to find today, which is why they can sell for $100 to $400 in damage-free condition.
13. Block Pattern Uranium Glass Candy Dish by Hazel Atlas
This unique footed candy dish from Hazel Atlas features the Colonial Block pattern, also known as “Modernistic,” with its distinctive geometric blocks! The covered design with its pointed finial lid was common in the 1930s.
The star-burst pattern on the base and the overall Art Deco styling make this piece of $100 for a candy dish.
Note: This article is intended for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Some images are illustrative and may not represent actual brands, products, or related entities. All trademarks, product names, brand logos, packaging, and other intellectual property referenced remain the exclusive property of their respective owners. Any brand mentions or references are provided solely for descriptive and educational context and do not imply any formal or commercial association.
