Sea Glass (Not a Shell)
Not Applicable (Anthropogenic Material) · Not Applicable (Man-made Object) · Other - Anthropogenic Glass Fragment
Species
Artificial Glass Fragment
Shell Type
Other - Anthropogenic Glass Fragment
Family
Not Applicable (Man-made Object)
Size
Approximately 0.5 inches, small tumbled piece.
Color & Pattern
Deep green color, solid and opaque with frosted, tumbled texture from wave action.
Rarity
Common, though deep greens and specific grades can be moderately uncommon.
Habitat
Found on sandy or pebbled beaches where wave action tumbles anthropogenic debris.
Geographic Range
Found worldwide along coastlines near human populations and historical dump sites.
Description
An opaque green fragment of manufactured glass that has been naturally weathered, smoothed, and frosted by tumbling in sand and surf over many years.
Key Features
Smooth, frosted edges with no natural biological growth, cellular structure, or calcium carbonate composition.
Collector Value
Low monetary value, but highly popular among hobbyists who collect sea glass for crafts and decorative displays.
Condition Notes
Well-tumbled with entirely smooth, frosted surfaces. Good condition for crafting or collection as sea glass.
Interesting Facts
Sea glass is often called 'mermaid's tears'. It originates from discarded bottles, tableware, and other glass items that spend decades being tumbled by the ocean.
Ecological Role
Acts as artificial substrate in marine environments, though largely inert. Represents human pollution transformed by natural processes.
Similar Species
Other beach-tumbled glass and certain smooth, polished stones.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along the high-tide line, especially near historic ports, rocky areas, or places with past coastal dumping.