How to Preserve Sea Glass

Most sea glass collectors view their collections as their pride and joy. Fortunately, a little care, love and protection are all a person needs to preserve her sea glass collection for many years to come.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Store in a Safe Place

1. Keep sea glass around longer by storing it in areas where children or pets are not able to reach. This greatly decreases the occurrence of unnecessary breakage.

2. Preserve glass by storing it in a place it will not be mistaken for trash. Sea glass can often be mistaken for broken pieces of regular glass, so be sure to let your loved ones--and your cleaning lady--know that this is not the case.

3. Bring sea glass indoors to ensure its preservation. Keeping a collection inside reduces the risk of the sun or rain wearing down the glass and causing it to fade or break.

Keep Out of the Elements

4. Hide the sea glass pieces from sand if you desire to preserve its appearance and shape. Sand combined with wind can cause cracks.

5. Be sure to keep sea glass out of water for extended periods of time. Mold or other bacteria could accumulate on the pieces of glass if not cleaned regularly.

Preserve Sea Glass in Containers

6. Use sturdy boxes or containers for sea glass not intended for display. This makes it easy to preserve as well as move a collection.

7. Buy a few sturdy glass containers to fill with sea glass. This will keep it safe while showing off your diligent collecting work.

8. Place baskets, vases or bottles containing sea glass on window ledges indoors. This way, the glass can still catch the natural light of the sun, but from the safety of the indoors.

Tips & Warnings

• If your collection is intended to be sold or traded, be certain to store it in strong containers wrapped in padding. This will limit the potential for damage.
• When transporting sea glass from the beach to your home, make sure to wrap it safely, so it doesn't break or chip en route.