Cobalt Blue Mirror Glass

[N8LGU]

    I remember seeing antique items as a kid made of blue glass from the '30's such as mirrors, ashtrays, and so forth. I noticed some Zenith floor model radios had cobalt blue mirror tops in some old advertisements. Then there was the famous "BLUE BIRD" table radio which is very sought after as a collectable.
    I have 1940 Zenith 8S463 that I bought at a yard sale for $20 that has a ruined top (flower pot damage). I thought I would install a Cobalt Blue mirror for the top. I called several plate glass companies around Pittsburgh and was told it was no longer being made as it was "illegal"! Something about the minerals used being radioactive.
    Do any of you guys know anything about this? Surely there must be some source for this really neat looking glass. I'm sure some company could make a good profit selling items made of this.
    I have searched the net and the stuff they offer is not the same color. If you've ever seen the real thing you know what I mean.

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

You don't remember the Cobalt bomb? 

Nasty stuff, that cobalt. Think they still use it in nuclear medicine?

[N8LGU]

    I know certain isotopes of Cobalt are radioactive- but it exists in non radioactive states as well. I need to dig out my CRC handbook...

[The Slab Bacon]

    I know certain isotopes of Cobalt are radioactive- but it exists in non radioactive states as well. I need to dig out my CRC handbook...

sure does, I have several sets of cobalt drill bits.  for blue mirror glass try Maryland Glass and Mirror here in Baltimore (410-752-1050) they are one of my suppliers here at work.
Ask for Dave, he may be able to help you. they have all kinds of wierd glass stuff.

                                                           The Slab Bacon

[N8LGU]

    Thanks, Slab Bacon. I'll give Dave a call.

[Jim, W5JO]

Don't know the reason but they quite making cobalt glass and amber glass a long time ago.  About the only place you will find it is at garage sales.

[W1RKW]

Naturally occuring cobalt. a transition metal isn't radioactive however Cobalt 60 is as well as several other isotopes.  Co60 has the longest half-life, about 5 or so years.

[W3RSW]

Um yes, we used CO 60 as a neutron source for density logging of downhole formations.  It's mounted in the logging tool only when in use and downhole.  Lead surrounds the source except for a tiny hole leading out the side of the tool.  Transported in paraffin filled container. Hydrocarbons soak up the neutrons... . same as your body : )

Birdwell Div. of Seismographic Service Corp., Div of Raytheon... back in the day.

[The Slab Bacon]

Ooopps, I made a mistook earlier. ( I always screw their numba up)

Maryland Glass's fone numba is 410-727-1050 and NOT 752-1050. I realized that after I posted it. I hate when that happens!!

                                                            The Slab Bacon