Glass paste

La glass paste is a fascinating material with a long history and a special place in the world of luxury jewellery. The term refers to a glassmaking technique that dates back to ancient times. Today, it is particularly prized in the creation of exclusive jewellery and objets d'art. Visit SMV ThailandWe use glass paste to create unique pieces that combine tradition and modernity.

Origin and history of glass paste

Glass paste was discovered several millennia ago in Egypt and Mesopotamia. At the time, craftsmen used this technique to create jewellery, amulets and various decorative objects. Glass paste is made by mixing glass powder with various metallic oxides to obtain a palette of varied colours.

The manufacturing process

The process of making glass paste is complex and requires a great deal of expertise. Here are the main stages:

• Preparation of materials Glass powder is mixed with metallic oxides to create different colours.
• Modelling The mixture is then placed in a plaster or silicone mould, which gives the object its final shape.
• Cooking The mould is heated in an oven to a high temperature, generally between 800 and 900 degrees Celsius, to melt the glass powder and transform it into a homogeneous mass.
• Cooling After firing, the mould is left to cool slowly to prevent cracks and ensure optimum strength.
• Finish Once cooled, the object is removed from the mould and can be polished or engraved to add extra detail.

The different applications

Glass paste is used in a variety of fields, including :

• Luxury jewellery : Thanks to its ability to capture light and offer a multitude of colours, glass paste is very popular for the creation of unique and exclusive jewellery.
• Works of art Many artists use this technique to create sculptures and decorative objects.
• Interior design Glass paste is also used to create stained glass windows, mosaics and various decorative elements.

Why choose glass paste?

Glass paste offers a number of advantages:

• Unique aesthetics Each piece is unique because of the natural variations in the manufacturing process.
• Durability Glass paste objects are strong and resistant.
• Customisation : The range of colours and design possibilities is almost endless.

Frequently asked questions about glass paste

What is the difference between glass paste and fused glass?

La glass paste is made from glass powder mixed with metal oxides and fired in a mould, while fused glass is made by superimposing sheets of glass that are then fused together. The two techniques offer different aesthetic results.

Is glass paste fragile?

Although the glass paste may be more fragile than some other materials, it is nevertheless very solid when handled with care. Objects made of glass paste are designed to be durable and shock-resistant.

How do I care for a piece of glass paste jewellery?

Jewellery made of glass paste should be cleaned with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface.

At SMV ThailandWe are proud of our expertise in pâte de verre and our ability to create luxury jewellery pieces that captivate and enchant. Discover our exclusive collection and let yourself be seduced by the timeless beauty of pâte de verre.