Changing Glass Colors with Irradiation

Reprinted from "Crown Jewels of the Wire", January 1998, page 75

I recently ordered a copy of the December 1997, Vol. 6 #12 issue of Antique & Collectors Reproduction News. You may want to order the issue as well. The cover article addresses the problem facing many glass collectibles, including insulators, when irradiation produces "rare" and "unlisted" pieces which are then sold to uninformed buyers. 

The article explains irradiation technology and how one can test for suspect alterations. I have visited an antique store in Indiana where a dealer (who is quoted in the article as having irradiated over 7,000 fruit jars in a year) has hundreds of bottles, jars and insulators for sale that may represent altered stock. 

I recommend becoming a knowledgeable buyer. You can order a copy of the December issue for $4.95 plus $1 shipping/handling by calling 1-800-227-5531 or you may wish to become a subscriber to this monthly publication. Rates are $32 (US); $41 (Canada) or $59 (Overseas).