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Bead Finishes and Coatings
Finishes
Aurora Borealis (AB)
Half-coat metallic finish that adds a prismatic effect to the surface of the bead. The beads are placed in an oven where a chemical reaction between metals produces fumes that adhere to the exposed surfaces of the bead.
Marea
AB process which produces primarily an orange/yellow reflection.
Vitrail
AB process which produces primarily a pink/green reflection.
Matte
Tumbled to create a subdued look. The surface texture of a bead depends on the length of time it is tumbled. Instead of being tumble polished to a bright shine, the matte finish creates a soft appearance to the bead. Throughout the tumbling process the surface alternates from being matted to polished and it is up to the manufacturing experts to calculate the perfect tumbling time. The matted effect can also be created by dipping the beads into an acid solution. This is the preferred method when creating matte AB finishes or working with delicate beads such as lampwork.
Matte AB
A combination of the above coatings. The beads are first coated with an AB finish and then dipped into an acid solution to take away the shine. This combination brings out the prismatic color refraction of the AB finish and the rough texture of the matted bead creates a glow and depth to the bead.
Luster
Durable, transparent, glossy color coating on glass beads that is heat treated like a glaze. These coatings are usually applied to a crystal or jet based bead; however there are limitless combinations that are becoming increasingly popular. On light beads a luster coating may add only a subtle hint of color, whereas dark beads may have the complete opposite effect.
Picasso
A luster coating that appears more speckled and spotty; giving beads a natural, earthy appearance. The color can vary from light yellow to dark brown with underlying color variations. Some base bead colors, such as opaque beige, blue, or white allow the picasso finish to take on a raku pottery look.
Coated Beads
Also known as dyed beads, these coatings are generally used to create unique shades and dual-tone color combinations that are usually unachievable or expensive to produce within the glass. They are not as durable as lusters or other finishes. With proper care and when used in the ideal conditions, these beads can stay shiny and brilliant for years to come.
Glass pearls
Alabaster white beads coated with a nitro-cellulose pearl pigmented lacquer.
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