How can you tell if glass is sea glass?

Get to Know Texture: Texture is the easiest way to identify most fake sea glass. If the texture is uniform and smooth, be on guard. The sea creates sea glass through “hydration,” leaching the lime and soda out of the glass, and giving it a rounded shape and frosty texture.



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Take the time to stroll along the shoreline and search for colorful glass fragments. Remember, however, that collecting glass from the beach is prohibited to preserve its natural beauty and protect the ecosystem.

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There are some beaches that are known for sea glass, the most popular is Fort Bragg, California, which was previously a dumpsite where glass was left in abundance. Another popular place is Kauai Island in Hawaii, where glass gets trapped in between lava rocks and makes it way to the shore.

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Don't discard what appears to be a dark stone, it might be black sea glass! It's rarely black in fact, usually very dark green or blue glass. Keep an eye out for patches of pebbles because they often trap sea glass. If you find a large, deep patch of pebbles, have a seat, relax and start scraping away layer by layer.

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Access the digital replica of USA TODAY and more than 200 local newspapers with your subscription. On all beaches located within U.S. state parks, it is illegal to collect sea glass. If caught, one might be fined upwards of $500. On other beaches, it is legal unless indicated otherwise.

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