Uranium Glass Necklace Value Guide

This striking 1920-1940s American-made necklace features vibrant uranium glass beads and a distinctive central flower-shaped clasp. Highly sought after by Depression-era glass collectors, these pieces are prized for their unique chemical composition and historical significance prior to post-WWII uranium restrictions.

What Is Uranium Glass Necklace Worth?

The typical price range for Uranium Glass Necklace is $150 - $200 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the prominent central flower-shaped clasp significantly impacts the $150-$200 valuation.
• Clarity and intensity of the glass color, as well as the strength of the fluorescence under UV light.
• Overall physical condition, specifically looking for chips in the glass beads or structural integrity of the metal findings.
• Historical provenance as a pre-WWII piece made before government restrictions limited uranium use in decorative glass.

How to Identify Uranium Glass Necklace?

• Verify the signature neon green glow under a long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light source.
• Examine the central flower-shaped clasp for era-appropriate metal patina and construction consistent with 1920-1940 United States manufacturing.
• Check for the characteristic oily or 'Vaseline' yellow-green tint in natural light, typical of authentic uranium oxide additives.
• Inspect the bead stringing and metal components for signs of vintage wear rather than modern mass-produced replicas.

History of Uranium Glass Necklace

Uranium glass, also known as Vaseline glass, was popular from the 1880s through the 1940s. Its distinctive glow under ultraviolet light is due to the small amount of uranium oxide added during its manufacture. While radioactive, the levels are generally considered safe. Production declined significantly after World War II due to restrictions on uranium use.