DICHROIC GLASS:
Dichroic glass contains multiple layers of metal oxides which give the glass dichroic glass optical properties. Dichroic is highly reflective glass. There is a main or transmitted color, and another reflective color. Typically dichroic glass is layered with other glass which has the same coefficient of expansion. The glass artist is able to obtain differing results through layering and varying kiln temperatures. While costly and challenging to work with, the end results are usually spectacular once fired in the kiln.
FUSED GLASS:
Fused Glass a term used to describe glass that has been fired (heat-processed) in a kiln at a range of high temperatures from 1,099 to 1,501 °F. There are 3 main distinctions for temperature application and the resulting effect on the glass. Firing in the lower ranges of these temperatures is called slumping. Firing in the middle ranges of these temperatures is considered "tack fusing". Firing the glass at the higher end of this range is a "full fuse."
While the precise origins of glass fusing techniques are not certain, there is evidence that the Egyptians were familiar with the process. Some historians argue that the earliest fusing techniques were first developed by the Romans, who were much more prolific glassworkers. Fusing was the primary method of making small glass objects for approximately 2,000 years, until the development of glassblowing. Fusing began to regain popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the U.S. Modern glass fusing is a widespread hobby but the technique is not widely used for large-scale glass production. This may be changing with nations such as China flooding the market with "molded" products from mass production companies.
Fused Glass a term used to describe glass that has been fired (heat-processed) in a kiln at a range of high temperatures from 1,099 to 1,501 °F. There are 3 main distinctions for temperature application and the resulting effect on the glass. Firing in the lower ranges of these temperatures is called slumping. Firing in the middle ranges of these temperatures is considered "tack fusing". Firing the glass at the higher end of this range is a "full fuse."
While the precise origins of glass fusing techniques are not certain, there is evidence that the Egyptians were familiar with the process. Some historians argue that the earliest fusing techniques were first developed by the Romans, who were much more prolific glassworkers. Fusing was the primary method of making small glass objects for approximately 2,000 years, until the development of glassblowing. Fusing began to regain popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the U.S. Modern glass fusing is a widespread hobby but the technique is not widely used for large-scale glass production. This may be changing with nations such as China flooding the market with "molded" products from mass production companies.
