Pure Sea Glass is an incredible reference for any coastal enthusiast. More than 200 elegant images by photographer Celia Pearson present some of the best sea glass ever collected, along with samples of the classical glassware that is often its source. Author Richard LaMotte provides tremendous detail on all aspects of identifying sea glass, its historical significance, ways to assess rarity, and the most advantageous locations and times to search for it. The reader also is introduced to the science of how sea glass develops its uniquely frosted patina. LaMotte explains how crystalline formations on the surface ofsea glass shards transform them into highly prized gems. The book's color- rating scale is based on an intensive study of more than 30,000 pieces of sea glass. It helps readers determine how rare each piece in their own collections might be. A comprehensive assemblage of antique bottles and tableware informs the reader while paying tribute to the great American glass industry prior to mass-production.
Author Richard LaMotte has been at the forefront of sea-glass research since presenting his first lecture on the topic back in 2002. His book, Pure Sea Glass, Discovering Nature's Vanishing Gems, is a master reference on sea glass for North American collectors, earning first place in nonfiction from the Writer's Digest 13th Annual International Self-Published Book Awards.
Richard has lectured or hosted hundreds of events in the United States and Canada. His book and presentations educate and encourage collectors to develop successful beachcombing strategies and--through the history of glass manufacturing and the science of ocean weathering--unlock the mysteries of their seaside treasures.
Richard has been featured in newspapers around the country including the Washington Post, New York Times, Boston Globe, The Baltimore Sun; magazines such as: Coastal Living, Parade Magazine, Delaware Beach Life; and appeared on TV with The Martha Stewart Show and Maryland Public Television as well as interviewed on National Public Radio.
Richard and his family have collected more than 40,000 pieces of sea glass, much of it along the Chesapeake Bay near their home in Chestertown, Maryland. He currently serves as President of the North American Sea Glass Association.
