A solution for authenticating an article using a fluorescence signature emitted by the article in response to ultraviolet light is described. The article can include a light activated region that includes particles that can emit fluorescent radiation in response to being radiated with ultraviolet light. The light activated region can include one or more attributes for configuring the ultraviolet light and/or the fluorescent radiation to create the fluorescence signature. An authentication system can include an ultraviolet source, a fluorescent radiation sensor and components for operating each to acquire data used to authenticate the article.