Fiestaware L’orange

Hey fellow vintage lovers! Lately, I’ve been absolutely smitten with the vivid charm of orange Fiestaware. You know that unmistakable, sunny hue that just screams classic American kitchen? I recently added a beautiful piece to my collection, and it sparked a thought I’ve heard whispered among collectors: what’s the deal with some orange Fiestaware being radioactive? It turns out, the rumors are true for a specific era of Fiestaware, often referred to as 'Radioactive Red' or, more broadly, the early orange and red glazes. The original L'orange Fiestaware, produced by Homer Laughlin China Company, was indeed colored with uranium oxide. This was common practice for creating vibrant red, orange, and even some yellow glazes from the 1930s up until the mid-1940s. The specific period for the original red/orange glaze was from 1936 to 1943. After that, due to wartime rationing of uranium for military purposes, the formula changed, and the vibrant 'radioactive' red/orange was discontinued. Now, before you panic and toss your cherished pieces, let's talk about the actual risk. The uranium used in these glazes emits low levels of alpha radiation. Alpha particles have a very short range and can be stopped by a sheet of paper or even your skin. The primary concern comes from ingestion or inhalation of dust from damaged pieces, or prolonged, direct contact, especially if food were to be served on these dishes regularly. Most collectors agree that displaying these pieces is generally safe, but using them for food is not recommended due to potential leaching of lead (also present in vintage glazes) and the radioactive material over time. If you’re curious about your specific pieces, a Geiger counter can confirm their radioactivity. So, how can you identify if your orange Fiestaware is one of these early, uranium-containing pieces? Look for the vibrant, deep orange-red color. Later orange Fiestaware, produced after the war, had a different, often less intense, shade and does not contain uranium. Original pieces typically have a distinct, often lighter, bottom rim where the glaze didn't reach. Also, check the backstamp; early pieces might have a block letter mark or no mark at all on smaller items. The Homer Laughlin China Company mark will confirm its authenticity. Collecting vintage L'orange Fiestaware is a joyous hobby, connecting us to a piece of American history and design. Knowing its unique properties only adds to its story. My personal take? I adore my orange Fiestaware for its beauty and history. I display it proudly in a cabinet, admiring its glow, but I always keep in mind its vintage origins and choose not to use it for serving food. It's all about enjoying these treasures responsibly and appreciating the intricate details of their past. Happy collecting!