Question from ch
Hi Debra,
Do you know if a stained glass lamp would be harmful in regards to it’s lead content? I have had to throw out some store bought lampshades because of the toxic smell they gave off when the lamp was on. So, I am now looking for something with a glass shade.
Thanks
Debra’s Answer
The Australian goverment alert on stained glass warns against lead exposure during the making of stained glass items, but says nothing about lead exposure from the use of stained glass lampshades.
Lead fumes occur when lead solder is melted. Operating the soldering iron at very high temperatures releases more fumes than at lower temperatures. Even though a light bulb does produce heat, it’s not enough to actually melt the solder, which needs to occur for fumes to be released.
So I would say, based on this, that stained glass lampshades should be safe. However, I there may be some residual lead on the lampshade that may come off when you touch it. Just in case, wash your hands after installation, or wear gloves.
