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Pure Sea Glass: Discovering Nature's Vanishing Gems
This definitive reference for beachcombers is also a beautiful addition to any coffee table. Pure Sea Glass surveys the history of glass manufacturing, explains the weathering process that creates frosted gems from fragile shards of old glass and tableware, and offers tips on how and where to find the best pieces. More than 200 exquisite photographs bring to light the luminous beauty of authentic sea glass.
232 pages, Hardcover
First published June 30, 2004
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161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 20, 2016
This is an excellent book to help you get started collecting sea glass. The history and information provided in this book makes this book this an invaluable book for beginners. You will be able to identify if a piece of sea glass that is anywhere between 20 to 100 years old, or even more! I had no idea that real sea glass is pretty rare. If you have been beachcombing for sea glass, I recommend this book. The authors of this book have been collecting their own sea glass for 20 years.
January 24, 2019
This book was always laying around the house of my best friend growing up and it was fun to sit down and actually read it through. I really enjoyed learning about the different colors and probable origins of pieces in my collection. This book is a great resource to have on hand if you’re an avid beachcomber.
March 21, 2015
A Tremendous Resource
I originally tracked this book down because it is issued by the same company that produces the "Pure Sea Glass Identification Deck". You see that card deck at every glass show, museum and jewelry show on the California Coast. The photos are excellent and the little info-bits on the cards really whet one's appetite for sea glass hunting and collecting.
Anyway, this book is written by the person behind that deck. It is spoken of as being THE sea glass book, but it's a little spendy for a casual collector. We aren't obsessed, but we are enthusiastic, so we decided to splurge on the book as a treat. It is worth every dime.
Sure, there are lots of great photos. But there are plenty of books with lots of photos. In fact, and this is the important point, while most other books are mostly nice photos and a cheerful song and dance, this book has so much fascinating info that you will find yourself sitting down and reading at length. There are, in no particular order of priority, tips about locating sea glass, explanations of the subtleties of weathering, a history of glass making and of color and coloring. There are extended reviews of sea glass sources - including bottles, tableware, flat glass, marbles, utility glass, containers, insulators and bonfire glass. There is some consideration of appraising rarity.
Basically, you get over two hundred pages of amiable instruction in the company of a knowledgeable and engaging expert in the field. You come out the other end informed, encouraged, and raring to find that one in a million red piece that will be the center of your collection. You will absolutely have a better understanding of and appreciation of the sea glass you see in shows, and even the sea glass you might have in your own collection. (You will undoubtedly have one, "Oh, so that's what that is!", moment as you read.) Certainly, no other book better balances enthusiasm, information, encouragement, insight and freshness. Like a well weathered cobalt blue piece, this was a happy find.
I originally tracked this book down because it is issued by the same company that produces the "Pure Sea Glass Identification Deck". You see that card deck at every glass show, museum and jewelry show on the California Coast. The photos are excellent and the little info-bits on the cards really whet one's appetite for sea glass hunting and collecting.
Anyway, this book is written by the person behind that deck. It is spoken of as being THE sea glass book, but it's a little spendy for a casual collector. We aren't obsessed, but we are enthusiastic, so we decided to splurge on the book as a treat. It is worth every dime.
Sure, there are lots of great photos. But there are plenty of books with lots of photos. In fact, and this is the important point, while most other books are mostly nice photos and a cheerful song and dance, this book has so much fascinating info that you will find yourself sitting down and reading at length. There are, in no particular order of priority, tips about locating sea glass, explanations of the subtleties of weathering, a history of glass making and of color and coloring. There are extended reviews of sea glass sources - including bottles, tableware, flat glass, marbles, utility glass, containers, insulators and bonfire glass. There is some consideration of appraising rarity.
Basically, you get over two hundred pages of amiable instruction in the company of a knowledgeable and engaging expert in the field. You come out the other end informed, encouraged, and raring to find that one in a million red piece that will be the center of your collection. You will absolutely have a better understanding of and appreciation of the sea glass you see in shows, and even the sea glass you might have in your own collection. (You will undoubtedly have one, "Oh, so that's what that is!", moment as you read.) Certainly, no other book better balances enthusiasm, information, encouragement, insight and freshness. Like a well weathered cobalt blue piece, this was a happy find.
March 4, 2009
This is an excellent book for anyone with a passion for collecting sea glass. I started collecting sea glass several years ago, and love to come home look up my beach treasures. I am a sea glass junkie, and have turned several of my friends onto these beautiful gems, and have recommended this book to all of them. The photos are exquisite and the information interesting, and especially useful for a collector.
January 31, 2008
As a beachcombing collector I had to check this out. Beautiful photography of sea glass, bottles and various types of glassware. Very practical and informative without being dry, though there was a lack of passion and enthusiasm. Lots of helpful resources in the back.
July 2, 2008
If you like collecting beach glass this is a great book to have - or gift to those who do enjoy it.
January 6, 2023
For more bookish thoughts, see my blog: Craft-Cycle
A great resource for learning more about sea glass. Provides details about the origin, history, and prevalence of different colors and types of glass. Also provides details for identification of bottles, tableware, flat glass, marbles, insulators, and more.
There is also a section that breaks down the science of sea glass formation and one on appraisal, which includes helpful charts for judging rarity of color, condition, and type.
The backmatter contains a list of glass museums in the US, a bibliography of resources, and a Sea Glass Collection Log to fill out by color. Though this is an older publication, the information is still relevant and quite helpful.
An interesting read for those who have started looking for sea glass and are seeking a more detailed understanding of its history, origins, and collectability.
A great resource for learning more about sea glass. Provides details about the origin, history, and prevalence of different colors and types of glass. Also provides details for identification of bottles, tableware, flat glass, marbles, insulators, and more.
There is also a section that breaks down the science of sea glass formation and one on appraisal, which includes helpful charts for judging rarity of color, condition, and type.
The backmatter contains a list of glass museums in the US, a bibliography of resources, and a Sea Glass Collection Log to fill out by color. Though this is an older publication, the information is still relevant and quite helpful.
An interesting read for those who have started looking for sea glass and are seeking a more detailed understanding of its history, origins, and collectability.
September 4, 2018
This is a fascinating reference for all matters related to collecting sea glass, including the weather, tides, science, and the history of glass. The photographic images are beautiful. I learned a lot, and it has whetted my curiosity even more.
August 5, 2020
My grandmother gifted me this book years ago, and I have used it faithfully ever since. The details and insight provided are unparalleled, and make investigating my own collection all the more exciting.
September 6, 2017
Beautiful, informative book.
December 13, 2018
Great information about glass and sea glass.
September 7, 2023
Beautifully photographed and well researched. A go to reference for the sea glass enthusiasts. I have never seen anything like this.
May 21, 2010
Pure Sea Glass, by Richard LaMotte
"Pure Sea Glass" can be read two ways. You can flip through it and look at the gorgeous photos of collected sea glass, glass bottles, and other forms of glass. Or you can read an extensively researched look into glass, from the history of glassmaking to the scientific processes that create sea glass, to the different styles of bottles used through the centuries, and so on. There's something for everyone in this book, glass enthusiast or not. This seems like a perfect coffee table book.
I'm a beginner to sea glass collecting, having only recently discovered the zen-like experience of hunting for shards of colorful glass on the beach. Whenever I find a new hobby or interest I compulsively read anything I can find on the subject, often going through several books to add to my knowledge. But after reading "Pure Sea Glass," I don't feel the need to read anything else. The author provides such a background on sea glass, and so much information that I feel very well educated.
Chapters include "Locating Sea Glass," which gives hints on where and how to find the best locations to find sea glass; "Conditioning and Weathering," which explains the scientific processes that weather and create the frosted effect on glass; and "Colors," which tells the rarity of sea glass colors, and the process used to create each color. There are eleven informative chapters in the book. I particularly enjoyed the information on the history of glassmaking, from glassblowing in 250BC to automated machines in the later 20th century.
I can't wait to get out on the beach, looking for more glass, after finishing "Pure Sea Glass." Reading the book pumped my interest up even more in my new hobby - I'm going to be eagerly looking for some of the rarer shades, such as red and turquoise!
4/5.
"Pure Sea Glass" can be read two ways. You can flip through it and look at the gorgeous photos of collected sea glass, glass bottles, and other forms of glass. Or you can read an extensively researched look into glass, from the history of glassmaking to the scientific processes that create sea glass, to the different styles of bottles used through the centuries, and so on. There's something for everyone in this book, glass enthusiast or not. This seems like a perfect coffee table book.
I'm a beginner to sea glass collecting, having only recently discovered the zen-like experience of hunting for shards of colorful glass on the beach. Whenever I find a new hobby or interest I compulsively read anything I can find on the subject, often going through several books to add to my knowledge. But after reading "Pure Sea Glass," I don't feel the need to read anything else. The author provides such a background on sea glass, and so much information that I feel very well educated.
Chapters include "Locating Sea Glass," which gives hints on where and how to find the best locations to find sea glass; "Conditioning and Weathering," which explains the scientific processes that weather and create the frosted effect on glass; and "Colors," which tells the rarity of sea glass colors, and the process used to create each color. There are eleven informative chapters in the book. I particularly enjoyed the information on the history of glassmaking, from glassblowing in 250BC to automated machines in the later 20th century.
I can't wait to get out on the beach, looking for more glass, after finishing "Pure Sea Glass." Reading the book pumped my interest up even more in my new hobby - I'm going to be eagerly looking for some of the rarer shades, such as red and turquoise!
4/5.
August 19, 2010
This was an awesome book. A subject I knew nothing about. Very interesting. All the different glasses described in the book were fascinating. All the old glass pieces from far past to present described in great detail. I especially loved the Fire Grenades (1850-1910). I want one! They were used before the invention of fire extinguishers. Beautiful photography. I see a new hobby in my future.
July 8, 2015
This book is a must-have reference for anyone in love with sea glass or the hunt of it. After my internet searches on the subject, I came across this title several times. I checked it out of the library and now know it needs to be a permanent fixture on my shelf. The photos are pure eye candy and the information is thorough. Pure Sea Glass will take you on a colorful journey through the history of glass and advise the best ways to find the beautifully worn pieces in our seas.
February 4, 2013
I haven't actually read much of the text as I got so absorbed in the photography. I LOVE sea glass; I think I'd like this book for my library....have to read the text first. So the stars are based on the pictures alone!
October 28, 2013
This is an excellent resource and a beautiful book for days when getting to the beach isn't possible.
Update: I had the pleasure of meeting the author at the 2013 North American Seaglass Festival. What a gracious man!
He was just a joy for everyone at the festival.
Update: I had the pleasure of meeting the author at the 2013 North American Seaglass Festival. What a gracious man!
He was just a joy for everyone at the festival.
January 31, 2016
A great book with beautiful pictures! I've always loved sea glass. Unfortunately I am 4 hours from the nearest beach. :( Would love to be retired and have the time to stroll the beaches daily hunting this treasure! Great coffee table book...
September 16, 2008
Nice reference for for placing value on your own sea glass collection and determining what to look for when beach combing
June 12, 2013
A pleasure to look through and informative, this book makes me want to go back to the seashore to hunt for sea glass.
January 23, 2016
Great resource for the avid sea glass collector.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews