How Dichroic Glass went from the stars to our Home Decor
Do you know what dichroic glass is? It’s an amazing material that creates beautiful stained glass-like designs, and it was created by NASA scientists! In fact, dichroic glass was actually invented at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to be used in telescopes and spacecraft windows because of its ability to reflect infrared light while remaining transparent to other colors of light. Since then, this technology has found its way into the decorative arts world and can be seen in the most elite pieces of home decor across the globe. Read on to learn more about this revolutionary material!
The History of Dichroic Glass
Dichroic glass was invented in 1960 when scientists realized they could combine two layers of glass together with an electro-reflective coating. The best part about dichroic glass is that it isn’t tinted; instead, it reflects back a complementary color depending on the angle you view it. These days, dichroic glass is used in many different fields such as interior design and art.
Why it was Used in Space Suits
Why it’s Used on Earth Today
Dichroic glass is created when a thin sheet of glass is sliced through, which creates two sheets of varying thicknesses. The layers are fused together and then ground down. This gives the dichroic glass a layered look that can easily change colors depending on the angle at which it’s being seen. This material is popular in interior design because it’s fashionable and practical at the same time, as it’s an energy-efficient option for window shades.
How is Dichroic Glass Integrated into Furniture
The key to integrating dichroic glass into furniture is understanding the qualities of this particular type of glass. Often containing mirrored layers that can display different colors at different angles, dichroic glass was historically used in space craft parts like mirrors and solar panels because it’s both lightweight and durable. Now, many designers are starting to integrate these one-of-a-kind mirror finishes into decorative pieces like end tables and wall art by designing framing that allows light to show off the amazing dichroistic properties of this material.
What You Should Know About Buying
Buying dichroic furniture can be a great investment, but be aware that not all dichroic is equal. The thickness and color of the glass is what sets it apart. For example, 1/2 inch thick pieces of clear and red hot designs have become a new trend because they are affordable and look great in any decor. Larger pieces with intricate designs should cost more due to the work that goes into them. In order to make a good purchase, try looking at several options.
Modern Elements Dichroic
