Jadeite, a type of opaque milk glass in a vibrant shade of green, gained popularity in the early to mid-20th century, particularly in the United States. Its unique color was achieved by adding uranium oxide during the glass melting process. This practice, however, was discontinued in the 1940s due to the critical need for uranium in the war effort, specifically the Manhattan Project.
Key Facts
- Uranium was once used as a colorant in glass and ceramic glazes, including jadeite, during the early 20th century.
- Jadeite glass that was produced before 1943 may contain uranium, which gives it a green color.
- Uranium glass, including jadeite, can be identified by its ability to fluoresce bright green under ultraviolet light.
- The practice of using uranium in glass production stopped in the 1940s when uranium became critical to the war effort during World War II.
- Jadeite produced after World War II, particularly the Fire-King Jade-ite brand, does not contain uranium and is a slightly different shade of green.
- Jadeite is highly sought after by collectors and can be found in antique and vintage stores.
- Jadeite is durable and was originally made with green scrap glass added into milk glass mixtures.
- Jadeite items were often sold at affordable prices and were given away as promotional items.
- Martha Stewart’s collection of jadeite glass helped drive up its popularity in the 1990s.
- Today, jadeite glass is still produced by various companies, both domestically and internationally.
Identifying Uranium in Jadeite
Jadeite produced prior to 1943 may contain uranium, which can be identified by its distinct fluorescence under ultraviolet light. When exposed to black light, uranium glass, including jadeite, exhibits a bright green glow. This characteristic serves as a telltale sign of the presence of uranium in the glass.
Post-War Jadeite Production
After World War II, the production of jadeite continued, notably by the Fire-King brand. However, this post-war jadeite did not contain uranium. Instead, manufacturers achieved the green color through alternative methods, resulting in a slightly different shade of green compared to the pre-war jadeite.
Jadeite’s Collectibility and Popularity
Today, jadeite is highly sought after by collectors, who appreciate its unique color, durability, and historical significance. Jadeite items can be found in antique and vintage stores, often at affordable prices. The popularity of jadeite was further fueled in the 1990s when Martha Stewart showcased her collection of jadeite glass on her television show, leading to increased demand and value.
Conclusion
Jadeite, with its distinctive green color, has a rich history linked to the use of uranium in glass production during the early 20th century. While pre-1943 jadeite may contain uranium, post-war jadeite does not. Today, jadeite is still produced and remains a popular collectible, prized for its beauty, durability, and historical charm.
References:
- 10 Pretty Jadeite Dishes & Accessories for Your Home
- Jadeite: the (Negligibly) Radioactive Kitchenware for the Nuclear Age
- Jadeite (kitchenware) – Wikipedia
FAQs
What is jadeite?
Jadeite is a type of opaque milk glass with a distinctive green color. It was popular in the early to mid-20th century, particularly in the United States.
Why does jadeite sometimes contain uranium?
Uranium was used as a colorant in glass and ceramic glazes during the early 20th century. Jadeite produced before 1943 may contain uranium, which gives it a green color.
How can I tell if my jadeite contains uranium?
Jadeite that contains uranium will fluoresce bright green under ultraviolet light. You can use a black light to check for this characteristic.
Is it safe to use jadeite that contains uranium?
Yes, it is generally considered safe to use jadeite that contains uranium. The amount of radiation emitted by uranium in jadeite is very low and does not pose a health risk.
When did manufacturers stop using uranium in jadeite?
The practice of using uranium in glass production stopped in the 1940s due to the critical need for uranium in the war effort during World War II.
What is the difference between pre-war and post-war jadeite?
Pre-war jadeite (produced before 1943) may contain uranium and has a slightly different shade of green compared to post-war jadeite. Post-war jadeite does not contain uranium and was produced using alternative methods to achieve the green color.
Why is jadeite so popular among collectors?
Jadeite is popular among collectors due to its unique color, durability, and historical significance. It is also associated with nostalgia and the mid-century modern aesthetic.
How can I find jadeite items?
Jadeite items can be found in antique and vintage stores, online marketplaces, and garage sales. They can also be found in the collections of friends, family members, or neighbors who may have inherited or collected jadeite items in the past.