Handmade Silver Jewelry by Jo

Dichroic Glass

Dichroic Glass was originated by NASA for the space program.  Dichroic glass has a fine film of metal fused to the surface of the glass which gives it amazing sparkle and pizazz.  There are many, many patterns and colors.  Dichroic glass is absolutely one of the most intriging mediums from which to make jewelry.

Although it may look like something easy to make, it takes a lot of practice and knowledge to put the pieces together.  Most of the Dichroic jewelry you see has anywhere from 2-4 layers of glass, but may have even more. 

You must pick the layers carefully; color, textures, surface of the glass, types of glass must be compatible, and chosen to co-exist to form a beautiful finished product.  Carefully cut by hand and then layered together, they await to be fused (melted) together in a kiln.

The glass is carefully fused together in a kiln brought up to over 1600 degrees for hours, and then left overnight to cool.  If done correctly, pendants made of fused glass may be made into stunning pendants, earrings, rings, etc.  It can also be made into larger plates, trays or dishes by designing pieces of Dichroic glass into other types of glass.  Once again, adding sparkle to a eye-catching piece of art.