Beach glass, also known as sea glass, is a popular treasure hunt item found on the shores of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. The unique and weathered appearance of beach glass makes it a highly sought-after collectible among enthusiasts.
Most Common Colors of Beach Glass
The most common colors of beach glass found on the shores of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin are:
| Color | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Green | One of the most common colors, often from old bottles and jars. |
| Blue | Less frequently found, but still a popular color among collectors. |
| Amber | Also less common, but adds a warm, vintage touch to a collection. |
| Clear | While not as abundant as the colored varieties, clear beach glass is still a prized find. |
Best Beaches for Beach Glass Hunting
The beaches along the Wisconsin side of Lake Michigan are known for their abundance of beach glass. Some of the top spots for beachcombers include:
Kenosha County Beaches
The beaches of Kenosha County, particularly Simmons Island, are renowned for their wealth of beach glass. This is due to the area’s historical sea traffic and the presence of former factories and garbage dumps along the lakefront, which provided a steady supply of glass materials that eventually became weathered and smoothed by the waves.
Grant Park Beach, Milwaukee
Grant Park Beach in Milwaukee is a favorite spot for beachcombers, with a rich history dating back to the Silurian Sea. In addition to beach glass, this beach offers a variety of other interesting finds, including fossils and unique stones.
Indiana Dunes National Park
West Beach in the Indiana Dunes National Park, just across the state border, is another popular destination for beach glass hunters. The rocky beaches in this area are particularly conducive to the accumulation and preservation of beach glass, as the waves push the glass up and it gets caught in the rocks.
Time for Glass to Become Smooth
The exact time it takes for glass to become smooth and develop the characteristic appearance of beach glass on Lake Michigan is not precisely known, but it is believed to take several years, possibly even decades, depending on factors such as wave action and water conditions.
Additional Tips and Insights
Here are some additional tips and insights for beach glass enthusiasts:
- Look for Rocky Beaches: Beach glass tends to accumulate more on rocky beaches or areas with rocks, as the waves push the glass up and it gets caught in the crevices.
- Walk Away from the Sun: When searching for beach glass, it’s often helpful to walk away from the sun, as the glint of light reflecting off the glass can make it easier to spot.
- Join a Community: Connecting with other beach glass collectors, such as through the Lake Michigan Sea Glass Collectors group on Facebook, can provide valuable insights and a sense of camaraderie among enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Beach glass hunting on the shores of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin is a rewarding and enjoyable activity for enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the hobby, the beaches of Kenosha County, Grant Park in Milwaukee, and the Indiana Dunes National Park offer ample opportunities to discover unique and weathered pieces of glass that have been transformed by the power of the lake.