Shape is key to unlocking the mystery of surf-tumbled verses faux sea glass.  Smooth, rounded pieces (like found in Hawaii) are indicative of surf-tumbled glass. Sharp, jagged edges are a tell tale sign of artificial glass. See a square edge and you're probably looking at man-made glass. These blue pieces are the real deal!

 

 

Quality, natural sea glass can be found in a variety of colors. The varying shades of blue (aqua, teal, turquoise) are difficult to find and the most popular for jewelry! One finds different colors, depending on harvesting locations. Hawaii is one place where you are more likely to find gorgeous blue pieces. Clear, bright green and rootbeer are the most common colors. Seafoam (pale green) is also fairly prevalent and desirable because of the way the color catches the light. And of course the rare colors, yellow, pink, red and the elusive orange. See a large grouping of rare colors? Probably fake. The rare colors in this photo were found on beaches in Hawaii.

 

And finally, frost. Not all sea glass is frosted. The degree of frost depends on the amount of time that the glass has been in the sun. For instance, sea glass found on the beach and exposed to the sun will be frostier than glass that is collected in the water. While some people prefer heavily frosted sea glass, others are drawn to the less frosted translucent pieces because the colors may be more vivid.

 

I wish you luck in your quest for genuine surf-tumlbed sea glass be in on the beach or on eBay!

 

Aloha,

Sharon