Mesmerizing World of Dichroic Glass Beads in Jewelry Making

The Mesmerizing World of Dichroic Glass Beads

Dichroic glass beads have become an increasingly popular jewelry making component and art medium in recent years. Known for their ability to display an array of rainbow-like colors that seem to change depending on the lighting and angle, dichroic glass offers endless creative possibilities.

What is Dichroic Glass?

The term "dichroic" comes from the Greek word "dichroos" meaning "two colors." It refers to a process where metallic oxides are added to molten glass in order to produce a type of iridescent, light-sensitive glass.

This process was originally developed by NASA to create reflective surfaces for satellites and other spacecraft. However, in the 1990s, glass artists started experimenting with dichroic glass which sparked a renewed interest in this unique material.

How is Dichroic Glass Made?

To create dichroic glass, metals like titanium, chromium, aluminum, zirconium, and magnesium are vaporized and fused to the surface of the glass at high temperatures. This permanently alters the optical properties of the glass, allowing it to reflect certain wavelengths of light while letting others pass through.

When sunlight or any white light hits the treated surface of the dichroic glass, some of the wavelengths are transmitted through the glass while others are reflected off the metallic layer. This separation of light waves results in the vibrant spectral colors and shimmery iridescent effects that dichroic glass is prized for.

Unique Properties of Dichroic Glass

There are several distinctive qualities that set dichroic glass apart from ordinary glass:

• Dual colors - The different colors seen depend on whether the glass is viewed in transmitted or reflected light.
• Iridescence - Vibrant rainbow-like colors seem to shift and shimmer as the viewing angle changes.
• Light transmission - Allows some wavelengths of light to pass through while reflecting others.
• Reflectivity - Up to 99% of certain wavelengths can be reflected off its treated metallic surface.
• Durability - The metallic coating is fused permanently to the glass making it highly resistant to scratching and wear.

How Dichroic Glass Beads are Made

While dichroic glass sheets can be cut and used in larger projects, dichroic glass beads open up a wider range of jewelry making possibilities. Producing these miniature pieces of wearable art involves several steps:

1. Glass rods are heated and stretched out into long canes.
2. The canes are treated with metallic oxides to produce the dichroic effects.
3. The dichroic glass canes are heated again and rolled across a steel table, molding them into short tubes.
4. The tubes are cut into small bead-sized segments using a diamond saw.
5. Finally, the beads are shaped and polished into smooth round or faceted beads.

Types of Dichroic Glass Beads

Dichroic glass beads come in an endless variety of styles, including:

• Round beads - The most common shape, available in solid or hollow forms.
• Faceted beads - Cut into geometric shapes like hexagons, cubes, and teardrops.
• Rounds with faceted tops - Round base with a multifaceted flat top.
• Patterned beads - Molded with various imprinted patterns.
• Lentil beads - Thin flat disk-like shapes.
• Nuggets - Irregular chunky shapes reminiscent of crystals.

Beads also come in a spectrum of sizes from 2mm up to 20mm for statement pieces. The shape and size help determine the ultimate look and feel of the finished jewelry design.

How to Use Dichroic Glass Beads for Jewelry

Dichroic glass beads can be incorporated into jewelry in several ways:

• Stringing - Perfect for necklaces and bracelets, multiple beads can be strung in patterns on fiber, leather, or beading wire.
• Weaving - Can be woven into cuffs, chokers, headbands and other textile-based jewelry.
• Chainmaille - Interspersing dichroic beads into woven metal chains creates vibrant armor-inspired statement pieces.
• Wire wrapping - Wrapping beads with wire accents their colors and lends an organic look.
• Metal clay - Excellent color complement to silver or bronze metal clay components.

Whether used on their own or mixed with other gemstones, dichroic glass beads infuse any jewelry with spectrums of dazzling light. Their shifting colors appear different on everyone who wears them.

Caring for Dichroic Glass Jewelry

While the metallic coating makes dichroic glass quite durable, some care is still required when cleaning and storing it:

• Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away dirt and oils.
• Avoid harsh chemical cleaners which can damage the surface.
• Store pieces carefully to prevent scratches from other jewelry.
• Protect from sharp blows that can chip the beads.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to bright hot lights that may fade the colors.

The Enduring Popularity of Dichroic Glass Beads

Dichroic glass remains one of the most spellbinding materials for jewelry makers and artists. Its unique light-altering properties produce dazzling colors that seem to transform before your eyes with every subtle shift in angle and lighting.

From ornate stratified beads to simple smooth rounds, dichroic glass offers creatives an endless palette of iridescence to work with. Its versatility also allows it to be incorporated into nearly any type of jewelry from delicate chains to bold metal cuffs.

From art galleries to Etsy shops, dichroic glass continues to be highly sought after by collectors. The combination of its intrinsic natural beauty and sci-fi allure will likely ensure dichroic glass beads remain a popular choice for one-of-a-kind jewelry and art for years to come.

FAQs

What causes the colorful shimmering effects in dichroic glass?

The colors and iridescence are caused by the vapor deposition of metallic oxides onto the surface of the glass. This alters the way the glass reflects and transmits light waves, separating them into spectral colors.

How durable is dichroic glass for use in jewelry?

The metallic coating makes dichroic glass quite durable and resistant to scratches. However, sharp blows may chip beads, so care should be taken to avoid damage.

Can dichroic glass beads go in an ultrasonic cleaner?

No, ultrasonic cleaners can damage the surface of dichroic glass. It's best to clean by gently wiping with a soft cloth.

How do you polish or buff dichroic glass beads?

Polishing or buffing dichroic glass is not recommended as it can wear away the delicate metallic coating that produces the special effects. It's best to leave dichroic glass in its original smooth or faceted state.

Can dichroic glass beads fade or lose their colors over time?

Prolonged exposure to bright hot lights can cause the colors to fade somewhat. However, when cared for properly and not over-exposed to heat or chemicals, dichroic glass beads will retain their vibrant iridescence for many years.