If you’ve ever wandered along a UK shoreline and spotted a smooth, frosted gem glinting in the sand, chances are you’ve discovered sea glass. Its beauty, history, and uniqueness make it a favourite for beachcombers and jewellery lovers alike. But one question pops up often:

Is it illegal to collect sea glass from UK beaches?

Let’s dive in and clear up the facts—especially if you’re a sea glass collector or interested in Sea Glass Jewellery like our handmade pieces at Seren Popi.

Good news: collecting sea glass from UK beaches is not illegal. In fact, sea glass is generally considered a form of litter or manmade debris. Unlike fossils or archaeological finds, which may be protected under the law, sea glass is simply old glass that has been discarded and then naturally weathered by the sea over time.

That said, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Respect private property: If the beach is privately owned, you should seek permission before collecting anything.

• Follow local rules: Some nature reserves or protected areas may restrict collecting to preserve the environment.

• Take only what you need: It’s always good practice to collect mindfully and leave some treasures behind for others to enjoy.

Sea glass usually starts as discarded bottles, jars, or glassware tossed into the sea. Over decades, it gets tumbled by waves and smoothed by sand, emerging as beautiful, frosted gems. Because its origins are manmade waste, it’s not a protected natural material under UK law—which is why it’s legal to collect in most places.

By picking up sea glass, you're actually helping to clean the beach. So next time you find a piece, know that you're both treasure hunting and tidying up.

At Seren Popi Jewellery, we hand-collect sea glass from the beaches of Wales and give it new life as part of our Sea Treasure collection. Each piece is set in recycled Sterling Silver and transformed into rings, necklaces, and bracelets that carry the magic of the Sea.

Our sea glass jewellery is:

• Eco-conscious and sustainably made

• One-of-a-kind (just like every sea glass fragment)

• A wearable piece of Coastal history

Whether you're a fellow beachcomber or simply drawn to the Sea's beauty, our Sea Treasure collection offers timeless designs that connect you to the coast.

If you’ve found your own piece of sea glass and want to transform it into a keepsake, we offer a special custom jewellery service where we can turn your beach-found treasure into a bespoke piece. It’s a wonderful way to preserve a memory and wear a truly personal piece of the sea.

Even better, why not join one of our Sea Glass Jewellery Workshops? Held in our Vale of Glamorgan studio, these relaxed, creative sessions teach you how to set sea glass in sterling silver to make your own pendant, ring, or charm. Whether you're crafting a gift or making something just for you, it's an experience as meaningful as the jewellery itself.

Workshops are open to all skill levels and are a brilliant way to connect with others who love the ocean and creativity as much as you do.

So, is it illegal to collect sea glass from beaches in the UK? Nope! As long as you follow local rules and respect the environment, you're free to collect these Sea-made gems.

And if you're looking for a meaningful way to wear a piece of the sea, our Sea Treasure jewellery, custom design service, and hands-on workshops are perfect ways to celebrate the beauty of sea glass.

Happy collecting—and happy creating!