As the gaseous tritium decays, electrons emitted during the decay process come into contact with the phosphor coating and cause it to glow. The energy levels involved are very low, but sufficient to generate a continuous light output. The process is similar in principle to that of a fluorescent light tube, but involving very much lower levels of energy

Tritium, symbol T or H-3 is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. NUVALUME jewellery utilise tritium in its gaseous form. Trace amounts of naturally occurring tritium found in the environment are formed by the interaction of the atmosphere with cosmic rays. The nucleus of tritium contains one proton and two neutrons. In its unstable state, tritium decays to non-radioactive helium-3, in the process emitting a beta-particle (also known as an electron) These electrons, produced during the transition of tritium to helium, are the power source for the viles used in these pieces.

All viles used in our NUVALUME jewellery is non-emissive and utilises very low levels of energy, they are safe to use in a range of applications.

Gaseous tritium produces electrons that are of sufficiently low energy as to be unable to breach a sheet of paper or to penetrate human skin.

Nevertheless, care must be taken when handling these devices to avoid breakage and subsequent ingestion of residual gaseous tritium. All products are not for human consumption.

Light emitted by our NUVALUME jewellery can be produced in several colours in the visible spectrum (green, yellow, orange, red, blue, ice-blue, white, purple and pink) as well as in infra-red.

Light output is linear and follows a straight line performance curve to a half-life of 7.5 years. They require no external electrical supply (from mains or battery) nor do they need to be charged by ambient light.

performance is predictable through their service life whether or not installed in permanent darkness and irrespective of environmental conditions.

They will operate normally in any environmental conditions; in temperatures ranging between -40° to 70°C irrespective of humidity, even when immersed in water.

No, Our jewellery does not require any charging with light or electricity. They operate completely independently of any external power or energy supply.