What is Dichroic Glass:
Dichroic is a high-tech optical coating that selectively reflects certain wavelengths (colors) of light and allows the remaining wavelengths to transmit through.
This same effect is seen in nature in peacock feathers and opals. The word "dichroic" means two colors, which refers to transmitted color and reflected color. The coating process is done in a high vacuum chamber that has several pieces of specialized equipment to control and monitor the coating process.
The coating on Dichroic glass is vulnerable to scratches and damage from solvents, oils, adhesives, and fluxes. Therefore, the glass should be handled carefully and protected from abrasions. When necessary, Dichroic glass can be cleaned using mild soap and water or a mild glass cleaner and dried with a soft cloth.
Fusing Dichroic glass not only produces captivating effects, it eliminates all the vulnerabilities listed above as well. The fusing process molecularly binds the glass and the coating materials. Reflective colors difficult to perceive on clear glass will intensify when fused onto a background of black glass. Clear glass offers versatility as it can be fused with Dichroic coating either up or down. When fused Dichroic side down, the coating will be encased in a layer of clear. When fused Dichroic side up, a soft metallic effect is achieved
