Working with Dichroic Glass

The word dichroic means two colors, and refers to the differing colors experienced by viewing an object from different angles. Developed in the 1960s by NASA, this technology was quickly adopted by art glass and stained glass artists.

By adding a thin layer of metallic oxides to glass surfaces, the dichroic coating creates a diffraction grating that passes some light wavelengths while reflecting others. This gives the glass an iridescent effect similar to butterfly wings, hummingbird feathers or fire opals. This new material provides boundless opportunities for visual artists.

Artèfactz uses dichroic glass to create unique sculpture and sculptural jewelry for its discriminating customers.