Michael Krumme of Los Angeles asked the question in an earlier e-mail where lye can be found, following a discussion on using it to clean mineral deposits on glass. Michael in thanking those providing answers to this question says

So if we try this to clean hollow glass vessels, will that make us “lye-ers”?

A word of warning from June Riccio of Alamo, California on using lye

A word of caution to would-be users of lye – It is very caustic, and can burn through your skin like acid! Please be very careful out there if using it.

Next, Frank Ford responds to Tommy Dreilings question on the Julia sale.

Regarding Tommy Dreiling’s comments about Julia’s auction this week.

I also thought lot 1400 gold Aurene decorated vase sold very low. With much regret I wish I had bid on it ! Also, the Rare Turquoise Aurene ( lot 1383 ) vase which was supposed to “go through the roof ” sold for a mere $4000. I consigned the piece and had I known the hammer price I would have kept it. But as we all know anything can happen at auction !!!

Frank W. Ford

Finally, Dick Stark of Bethesda adds his observations.

i think 2 to 3m for lot 1400 is appropriate….a fine webb cameo vase sold at half it’s value or less while a nice, but lesser one fetched 1m more