Art Deco Uranium Glass Bead Necklace
Long uranium glass bead necklace dating from the Art Deco period, circa 1930. With its distinctive bright acid green colour and striking fluorescence under UV light, uranium glass really does contain uranium - usually in trace amounts, under 2%, but example have been found to contain as much as 25% uranium. Bohemian glass maker Josef Reidel is often credited with inventing uranium glass in the 1830s, naming his the green variety Annagruen and the yellow Annagelb (after his wife, Anna). The Second World War, specifically the Manhattan Project, effectively put an end to uranium glass production, although a small handful of manufacturers continue to make it in some form.
And if you were wondering... yes, it's safe. The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission stated in 2001 that uranium glass is considered to be safer than household electronics. Can't speak for the guys who used to make the stuff though.
Era: Art Deco, circa 1930
Length: 38 inches
Stones: Uranium Glass
Marks: None, clasp tested as base metal
Condition:
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This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable).
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain).
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[Last updated: 28th February 2026]
Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£55 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
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Layaway
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Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff or scrape is quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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