Description
Rare 1930s Art Deco relic. Marbleized (slag / agate) glass ashtray and ‘innovative’ electric lighter made in the USA…still looks and works great.
No damage on the glass or lighter. The lighter cord is just a tad frayed at the plug end, otherwise great condition, still flexible. The plug is in perfect condition with original hardware, marked ‘USA’.
The glass was made by Balmer-Westite West Virginia LJ Houze Convex Glass Company. This marble-like glass is often referred to as Akro Agate glass.
The lighter plugs into a standard outlet and provides a red hot light within seconds of lifting it from the holder. As the lighter is raised, the mechanics move slightly and trigger the electricity. When it’s sitting on the holder, it’s not hot.
An interesting effect occurs when lit by a standard blacklight in a dark room…it glows neon green (see image 5). This is due to Uranium used in the glass recipe. Don’t worry, the trace of Uranium can’t hurt you. In the old days some glassmakers used Uranium in place of lead because lead was expensive and hard to get, and it was used to affect the color. They didn’t know it would cause the glass to glow under modern blacklights.
Items shown in the Big Ashtray Museum are not for sale. Big Ashtray offers a large selection of antique, vintage and retro art ashtrays, plus modern-made ashtrays, for sale in the Big Ashtray shop. Click here to view available items…
