I went with the Inova since I've purchased other lights of theirs in the past and they've been consistently high quality. https://www.amazon.com/NITE-X5MT-UVT-Flashlight-Ultraviolet-Titanium/dp/B0006HM8V6
It's pretty small and super at getting the glow. I use it for my photos. Check out my previous posts. It's all using this.
These are a little spendy, but the USB charging allows me to keep it in the car/bag and charge it on the go. The beam is super powerful and will often pick up pieces with low levels of uranium in them. I even got it to light up a portion of my pieces when they were in direct sunlight.
Anker Bolder UV flashlight Rechargeable:
I've had better luck finding stuff on Amazon using their ASIN number. I got this one recently. Dual wavelength which is nice. B0B6QP92G6 or UV flashlight
If you want to recognize more patterns I’d highly recommend this book it’s got drawings of the patterns that are awesome for beginners! It’s extremely helpful when you’re learning and can see the details of the patterns and then when you go out looking and actually see and touch the patterns you’ll get familiar very fast!
This link is the newest edition of this book from 2014 I have this one but take the prices in the book with a grain of salt prices have fallen across the board for most depression glass. Also don’t pay that price get a used copy off eBay that’s what I did it’s much cheaper!
No worries! I bought a 6 pack off Amazon so I could share with my mom and GF and have backups/extras to give away. For $8, would highly recommend. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086PW9DBH?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I bought a 6 pack of tiny blacklights that can fit on a keychain off of Amazon for ~$8. Huge game changer for identifying UG ftom non-UG out in the wild (as well as other uses for blacklights).
RaySoar (Pack of 6) Mini UV LED... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086PW9DBH?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
At home, I have a 24" blacklight bar that I got for ~$10 at Walmart back in college (I used it just as a decoration back then, prior to owning UG). I use it to glow my collection every once in a while.
I use this one from Amazon, I have it hanging from above (Underside of the shelf directly above the glass), projecting the light downward onto the glass. It makes everything pop hard.
Took me a minute to find E12s (standard nightlight/candelabra base) but here they are
This is a cool idea!
I have bought these lights twice for each of my displays I have. They’re super easy to put in and are really bright, haven’t had any problems with them yet! And if you’re handy at soldering wires you can cut and splice them for a very clean install.
33ft LED Black Light Strip Kit,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WG75NDR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Black light is the best way, if not the only way to be certain. There is a good deal of glass in that same green color, which looks like UG, but isn't.
Black lights are pretty cheap on Amazon and other places.
Let me send you the flashlight I use. It’s a telescoping one and it’s in 395nm not 365nm. It’s the best all around light and it can switch from regular to uv!
Black Light UV Flashlight, LED UV... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X1H5TJQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Along with being higher frequency(365nm vs the 395 of most blacklights) this one has a filter that keeps it from throwing lots of purple visible light, which is super important for spotting stuff like blue uranium glass where the fluorescence can get drowned out. I might make a whole other post with direct comparisons at some point...
This is what I use. It’s a tad weak, but laminates both uranium glass and florescent minerals. Kinda hard to find a 365nm. https://www.amazon.com/ADJ-Products-Stage-Light-BLACK-24BLB/dp/B0002F5544?th=1
I will have this showing up at my house today:
https://www.amazon.com/ADJ-Products-Stage-Light-BLACK-24BLB/dp/B0002F5544?th=1
It came highly recommended by someone with three of them in a beautiful display. Half fluorescent minerals half uranium glass sort of deal.
I couldn't find tea lights but I used mini keychains like these inside small UV items like votive holders or dishes with good results.
I ordered these: 33ft LED Black Light Strip Kit, 600 Units, 385nm-400nm, 12V Flexible Blacklight Fixtures, 10M LED Ribbon, Non-Waterproof for Indoor, Birthday, Wedding, Dark Party https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WG75NDR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_TCAGNPABCG62NPTWN2N6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Some of my pieces aren’t as bright as they are with my little flashlight but I’m still happy with how it turned out.
Blacklight key chain put it on your keys and you’ll never be caught without. Multiples to give to friends to hunt for you and very cheap :)
Its this one off Amazon. Limited-time deal: Rechargeable UV Flashlight, 3 in 1 UV Black Light LED Tactical Flashlight with Pocket Clip, High Powered 1200 Lumens LED Light 7 Modes Waterproof for Pet Clothing Detection/Emergency/Camping https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CXQV52M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_i_dl_GKS48V52NRWRFE7HP1H8
So I was on Amazon and saw this "365nm" flashlight for $12.99.
I knew it wouldn't be pure 365, but I am pretty impressed, to be honest.
Some comparison shots between a 50-LED 395nm light from Amazon and this single LED 365nm light.
I have a led keychain black light that’s powerful enough to identify UG no matter the shop’s lighting. Powerful, discrete, and always on me as long as I’ve got my keys. Also cheap enough that I give one to anyone who is interested, or friends/family that thrift.
Fantastic light. Very small and very bright, so goes through the single AA fast. Just bring a spare battery when on long hunts.
they're great because the clear plastic kinda luminesces itself, causing the glow to be even more intense
Even the cheapest UV light is ok, i'll light up the Uranium.
I found out that even my colour change led stripes in my kitch, when set to the most purple colour, is near UV , and lights up the glasses!
I bought this one and it serves me well :
https://www.amazon.nl/ultraviolette-ultraviolet-vloertapijten-authenticeer-energieklasse/dp/B07PSHKR23/ref=asc_df_B07PSHKR23/?tag=nlshogostdde-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=454748523028&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13393750494672246223&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=20055&hvtargid=pla-721287070968&psc=1
Sure but they are already pretty similar. Just make sure it's a 395nm to find Uranium glass. 365nm makes for better pictures. I like these ones because they aren't bulky and are more discreet than others. Some places won't put prices and if they see you get excited they will ask more. Flea markets and yard sales mostly. Nearly any black light will work though.
Barrina UV LED Blacklight Bar, 9W 2ft, T5 Integrated Bulb, Black Light Fixture for Blacklight Poster and Party, Fun Atmosphere with Built-in ON/Off Switch(4-Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071NT6189/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_93MRXWWQ8RN3PANSC17K?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Get some reference books! My favorites are Mauzy's Depression Glass: A photographic reference and Collector's Encyclopedia of Depression Glass.
https://us.amazon.com/uvBeast-NEW-365nm-MINI-Rechargeable/dp/B085W7B5V3
This one is pricey but so worth it IMO! I love that it's rechargeable and it fits in my pocket. I can charge it in the car while out and about.
Additionally, the first one I bought was defective and the company was extremely responsive and sent me a new one free of charge after some clarifying questions.
This little guy has been on my keychain for a few years now. I've been trying to get another, but it looks like they stopped making them. The best features are the keychain and the charging port. It's very small, and a quick release on my keychain means I can hide it in my hand, I wear it like a ring. It uses an android charger, so I can keep it juiced up on the go.
Of course! I used these wall-Plug UV Lights with remote control. Unfortunately, they seem to be out of stock right now.
OP this is how it starts!
If I may…
-Get yourself a little black light keychain so you’ll never be without one, usually only a few dollars for 6 or more
Keep on looking and congratulations 🍾
This is the light bar I use and the nice thing about it is that I can wire multiple together, or I can hook multiple of them to USB extension cables to a hidden power supply. Right now I have 10 connected I run extension cable up to each shelf, then I have two Daisy chained together. They have two different light settings so you can do a lower or a higher power if needed and my whole display with the 10 lights only requires one 5-port USB hub. And the fact that it's USB means it's very low power consumption so I have left it on constantly.
Wennyn LED Black Light, 10W USB Compatible UV LED Blacklight Tube for Black Light Bulb Replacement, Glow in The Dark, Halloween, Blacklight Posters, Black Light Parties, Fluorescent Glow https://amazon.com/dp/B08DFQ93T6/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_ZM99CM5B47591G9YY27S?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Of the three I have, I'd recommend this one the highest. I also have this one. It's nice, and the USB charging is great, but it's not as bright as the first one.
The other one I got from I think Midnight Minerals. It's nice, but in my opinion not worth what I paid for it. With batteries and a charger I think it would be over your budget.
I recommend checking out the sofirn sp31, currently available at the sofirn website or on Amazon
These are great for lining the inside of a cabinet. Cheaper versions with fewer strips or feet available too.
Have had a ton of fun with this one: https://www.amazon.com/GQ-GMC300EPlus-Fulfill-Radiation-Detector/dp/B00IN8TJYY
It has a recurring alarm that starts beeping above 100cpm, but it can be turned off in settings. I've never come across uranium glass that really set it off. Detectable, but very low. However if you enjoy finding radioactive antiques in general, I highly recommend getting one.
On a side note, I'm curious to know what are some of the higher cpm readings everyone has come across from uranium glass.
I like this one, small and keep it on my keys so I always have it. Only problem is that it sometimes gets turned on in my pocket and then I have to replace the batteries.
https://www.amazon.com/LRI-AUV-Keychain-Micro-Light-Ultraviolet/dp/B0006IGDIE
This is the one I bought, its a little pricey and it’s badass but you can’t change the beam. But you won’t have a problem seeing anything light up.
uvBeast NEW V3 365nm MINI - Black Light UV Flashlight – HIGH DEFINITION Ultraviolet - Rechargeable 18650 USB-C Quick charge Port - Professional Grade HIGH POWER UPGRADED LED – USA Stock https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085W7B5V3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_LxeZFbPKAZQ5N?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I use this one. It has a pocket clip, both a long and short range mode, and won't break the bank. I've had it for 2 years and it's still going strong.
If you don't have a small UV inspection light yet, Amazon has some great low cost ones! The one my husband and I carry around is similar to this one
And baskets are awesome finds! Antique stores will also tend to have uglass, but don't let em hit you for idiotic prices!
GQ GMC300EPlus Fulfill Digital Nuclear Radiation Detector Monitor Meter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IN8TJYY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gwVtFbKS3P8FV
I’ve seen many good reviews on this one! A little dated looking but hey $75 ain’t bad!
The cabinet Is from IKEA The lights are off of AMAZON
Ultraviolet light also called black lights. You can get them on Amazon. I recommend LED strip UV lights. This kit is very easy to install:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TX1XNX9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1