Pure Sea Glass: Discovering Nature's Vanishing Gems

Pure Sea Glass is an incredible reference for any coastal enthusiast. More than 200 elegant images by photographer Celia Pearson present some of the best sea glass ever collected, along with samples of the classical glassware that is often its source. Author Richard LaMotte provides tremendous detail on all aspects of identifying sea glass, its historical significance, ways to assess rarity, and the most advantageous locations and times to search for it. The reader also is introduced to the science of how sea glass develops its uniquely frosted patina. LaMotte explains how crystalline formations on the surface of sea glass shards transform them into highly prized gems. The book's color-rating scale is based on an intensive study of more than 30,000 pieces of sea glass. It helps readers determine how rare each piece in their own collections might be. A comprehensive assemblage of antique bottles and tableware informs the reader while paying tribute to the great American glass industry prior to mass-production.