Q-Where are you located?
A- Our studio is located on Rt 23 just east of St. Peter’s Village in Northern Chester County. We are 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Q- What else do have besides dichroic glass jewelry & pewter jewelry?
A- My studio is called Unique Pewter & Glass Picture Framing Studio. We offer custom picture framing and have two certified picture framers on staff with over fifty years of combined experience.
Q- What is dichroic glass?
A- Dichroic (dye-crow-ick) glass is a special type of glass that exhibits multiple colors or hues when viewed from different angles. Create dichroic glass by depositing thin layers of metallic oxides, such as titanium, silicon, or magnesium, onto the surface of glass through a process called thin-film deposition.
The metallic oxides vaporize in a high-temperature vacuum chamber, and the resulting vapor condenses onto the glass surface in extremely thin layers. These layers are transparent and allow light to pass through, but they also reflect certain wavelengths of light. As a result, dichroic glass appears to have different colors or reflective properties depending on the angle of viewing and the direction of light.
The term “dichroic” refers to the glass’s ability to exhibit two different colors. However, modern dichroic glass can display a wide range of colors, including vibrant and iridescent shades. The specific colors and effects achieved depend on the types and thicknesses of the metallic oxide layers applied.
Dichroic glass is highly valued for its unique and captivating visual effects. It commonly used in various art forms, such as jewelry making, glassblowing, stained glass, and decorative objects. The interplay of colors and reflections in dichroic glass adds depth, brilliance, and a sense of dynamic movement to artistic creations.
The versatility and beauty of dichroic glass have made it a popular medium among artists and designers who seek to incorporate its mesmerizing qualities into their work.
You can find some of my pieces here in shop. Some of my best sellers are in Dichroic Glass collection of Dichroic Glass Pendants, Dichroic Glass earrings or the Dichroic Glass set with sterling silver wave chain.
Q-How is fused dichroic glass in a kiln made?
A-Glass fusing in a kiln is a captivating process that melds dichroic glass pieces into intricate designs through controlled heating. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how glass fusing in a kiln works:
First, the artist prepares the dichroic glass, cutting it into desired shapes and sizes. The artist these arranges dichroic glass pieces in various configurations, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
Next, carefully positioning the dichroic glass on a kiln shelf or kiln paper, which prevents sticking during the firing process. The arrangement of glass pieces forms a cohesive design that will fuse together when heated.
Once ready, the artist will heat the glass-filled kiln gradually according to a firing schedule. This schedule dictates the temperature and duration of each phase of the fusing process. The kiln’s temperature rises steadily, reaching temperatures typically between 1300°F (700°C) and 1500°F (815°C).
As the kiln heats up, the glass begins to soften. It gradually transforms from individual pieces into a unified structure as the heat causes the glass to fuse together. This process ensures that the separate glass pieces become one solid piece.
After reaching the desired temperature, the kiln enters a soak phase. During this phase, the glass fusing kiln holds the glass at a specific temperature for a set period. This allows for complete fusion and the removal of any air bubbles or imperfections.
Once the soak phase is complete, the kiln gradually cools down. This cooling process, known as annealing, is crucial to prevent thermal stress and ensure the glass doesn’t crack or break. The glass slowly returns to room temperature, strengthening and stabilizing the fused piece.
Once the kiln has cooled completely, remove the fused dichroic glass artwork. Depending on the desired finish, smoothed and polished the surface using various techniques like grinding or sanding.
The glass fusing kiln allows artists to transform separate glass pieces into cohesive, mesmerizing works of art. This widely utilized process offers limitless creative opportunities in the creation of jewelry, decorative items, and unique artistic expressions.
Q-What is Pewter?
A-Pewter jewelry is a type of jewelry crafted from pewter, a metal alloy that used for centuries in various forms of decorative and functional art. Pewter is primarily composed of tin, along with small amounts of other metals such as copper, antimony, and bismuth.
Pewter jewelry offers a unique combination of elegance and affordability. It is known for its distinct silver-gray color and soft, lustrous appearance. The metal’s malleability allows artisans to shape it into intricate designs, making pewter jewelry a popular choice for both traditional and contemporary styles.
Pewter jewelry often features intricate patterns, textures, and embellishments. Commonly used techniques include casting, stamping, engraving, and embossing. These methods allow for the creation of elaborate details and designs that enhance the visual appeal of the jewelry.
One of the advantages of pewter jewelry is its low-maintenance nature. It does not tarnish easily and can retain its polished look with regular cleaning. Pewter is also hypoallergenic, making it a suitable option for individuals with sensitive skin.
Pewter jewelry comes in a wide range of styles, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, and charms. The jewelry adorned with gemstones, beads, or other materials add color and sparkle to the designs. Pewter jewelry cherished for its timeless beauty, making it a popular choice for personal adornment or as a thoughtful gift.
Whether you prefer classic or contemporary designs our pewter jewelry offers a versatile and affordable option to add a touch of elegance and style to your accessory collection.
Pewter Care: Wash your pewter in warm soap & water and towel dry