Uranium Glass Ball

Uranium glass is a type of glass made with a small amount of the radioactive element with atomic number 92. This causes it to glow intensely bright green under ultraviolet light.

It was once common for glass manufacturers to add small amounts of uranium oxide, around 2% by weight, to their items to achieve yellow or green coloration. This practice became less popular after the element was strictly regulated in the US under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954.

Since UV lights are now widely accessible, interest in uranium glass has risen again and is now sought by collectors. The presence of uranium also means the glass is slightly radioactive. It is harmless to handle, but please avoid eating it.

In America, uranium is illegal to own without a license; however, an exception has been made for glassware containing uranium, according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

• Size is around ⅞ – 1” diameter.
• These are vintage, so some dents, small chips, and manufacturing imperfections can be expected.
• Slightly radioactive, but harmless.
• Makes a great uranium sample if you're collecting the elements.
• Comes in an acrylic storage box.

Learn more about the science behind the glow of uranium glass, and many other interesting colors, in our new book The Universe in 100 Colors.

This item pairs well with our ultraviolet LED flashlights. You may also like our other radioactive materials or element samples.