What Is Beach Glass?

Definition

• Beach glass is any type or color of glass that has been tumbled in the ocean waves long enough for for all the sharp edges to be worn down. In addition to being smooth, beach glass often looks frosted. Sand and other ocean debris can cause pockmarks in the glass and give it an etched surface. No matter where it's found, glass must be smooth, frosted and etched to classify as beach glass.

Artificial Beach Glass

• Because it is popular for use in jewelry--and because some colors and types of beach glass are considered quite valuable among collectors--artificially produced sea glass is sometimes sold as the real thing. Hand-produced glass is recycled glass that has been tumbled or treated with an acid wash. It is often sold as "craft glass." Craft glass has an even, satiny finish and may have a slight film of dusty residue leftover from processing. Sellers of craft or artificial beach glass typically offer an unusual amount of rare glass colors for purchase.

Colors

• The most common colors of sea glass are white, brown and green, though some specific shades of brown and green are harder to find than others. The rarest colors are red, orange, blue and yellow, with shades of red being the most elusive.

Uses

• Beach glass is used in a variety of craft and fine art projects, and it is also enjoyed as a collectible. Beach glass can adorn picture frames, jewelry boxes or other decorative items. It can be affixed to clear glass panels for a stained-glass effect. The most popular use for beach glass, however, may be in jewelry. Prized pieces of glass are wrapped with precious metal-wires and used to make pendants, earrings or brooches.

Expert Insight

• According to the online magazine "Sea Glass Journal," one of the most exciting destinations for beach glass seekers is Fort Bragg, California. The city was once the site of town dump, and years of refuse, including bottles and other glass items, have been transformed by time and pounding surf. The California Department of Park and Recreation no longer allows beachcombers to remove treasure from the "bucketfuls" of glass on this short stretch of beach.