A Quick Guide To Authenticating Ancient Glass
Ancient glass has a rich albeit intriguing history behind it. There are several ways that one can authenticate ancient glass personally before seeking professional services. Here are some of them: Surface iridescence typically forms in layers and forms skins like an onion. Thus if one tries to dislodge it, it should flake instead of crumble, although there are exceptions to the rule. The colors in the iridescence should flow akin to colors in a petrol spill in a puddle, unless it’s a modern glass covered with portions of genuine ancient iridescence. Image source : AARF.com The right chemical reactions can pave the way for iridescence to form even in less than 100 years in natural soil conditions, so it’s not a foolproof guarantee of authenticity. But this also means that a piece devoid of iridescence isn’t necessarily fake. Glass can be cleverly restored or repaired, so do this test carefully: run a very hot pin embedded in a heat-proof handle ove...