Antique collecting is a rewarding hobby that preserves history, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. From vintage clocks and ceramic dinnerware to military artifacts and scientific instruments, antiques offer collectors a tangible connection to the past. However, few collectors realize that some antique items may contain small amounts of radioactive material. Understanding the relationship between antiques and radiation can help collectors make informed decisions while safely enjoying their collections.
For collectors of vintage instrumentation and “uranium glass,” S.E. International, Inc. provides high-sensitivity Geiger-Mueller (GM) detectors to verify radiological activity and ensure safe display.
Antique Verification: Identify and measure the activity of radium-dial watches, vaseline glass, and vintage ceramics (like Fiestaware).
Nuclide Discrimination: Instruments capable of detecting alpha, beta, and gamma radiation to differentiate between surface contamination and deep-tissue exposure risks.
Portable Analysis: Rugged, handheld survey meters that allow for on-site testing at estate sales, auctions, and antique markets.
