Read on for six ways you can utilize black light testing and check out the “Black Light Book” published by “Antique & Collectors Reproduction News” to learn even more. A good repair job might not be readily visible without assistance but will become obvious under a black light since glue used in repairs will fluoresce. Modern paints will glow under the black light as well, so you can also detect touch-ups, repaints, and embellishments with ultraviolet light. Since most modern paints will fluoresce, you can use your black light to check for telltale signs of reproductions and painted repairs on cast-iron pieces prior to making an expensive mistake. If the paint doesn’t glow, look for other signs of age and wear to make sure the piece is really as old as you think it is. Extremely valuable banks should also be evaluated by an expert in addition to doing your own inspection. American colorless pressed glass made before 1930 is said to fluoresce yellow, while reproductions generally do not. Some people report that American brilliant cut glass also casts a yellow hue under ultraviolet light, others say it glows pale violet or blue. Given the discrepancies, make sure to follow up with further research to ensure cut glass authenticity. Lalique glass made prior to 1945 is said to produce a yellow glow under a black light. If you’re a serious art collector or want to become one, it’s wise to buy a book specific to art inspection to learn more about how ultraviolet lights can be used to test for authenticity and repairs before purchasing pricey works of art. However, additives in modern laundry detergents can cause old fabrics to glow under ultraviolet light if they were cleaned with these products. It’s wise to consider manufacturing techniques, design, provenance, and materials used in construction in addition to black light exam results when evaluating these items.
