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 DISTINGUISHED
BY DESIGN
Gems of Glass...by Canadian Artisan, Antonio Montagnese
The Process
The art of glass making has changed very little from the time
the first piece may have been created hundreds of years ago.
The two essential elements of glass making encompass time
and heat manipulation. Neither takes precedent over the other.
On the contrary the balance between them allow the existence
of the final object. When glass melts essentially the molecules
separate as the glass then liquefies color run into one another
allowing those molecules to reunite as it cools. The heat
dissipates in the natural order ensuring an end product not
only beautiful but structurally sound to take on the many
functions asked of it.
Handmade Masterpieces
All Gems products are hand cut. The stained glass is then
placed on a speciality clear base glass. Once assembled these
items are placed into the kiln, designed in part by Antonio
himself, to begin its 48-hour process of heat texturing at
the exclusive hands of Antonio Montagnese.
Fusing/Melting
In process one, the molecules essentially melt into one another.
An exacting time and heat program is formulated to allow a
successful solidification. This process takes many hours,
with the critical difference in time depending on many factors.
At the end of this process, we have a flat piece of glass
with wonderful coloring.
Slump/Forming - A product we can use
In the fusing stage many pieces may loose their original shape,
as the glass becomes liquid the glass can slide. Prior to
entering the forming stage these items will be sanded down
to retain its original shape. In the slumping/forming stage
the flat glass takes from the fusing process and is placed
in hand made moulds and are prepared for forming. In the forming
stage the goal is not to make the glass liquid, but rather
soft enough to take the shape of the mould it is placed in.
The process is constantly monitored through peep holes located
strategically around the kiln. Time alarms are set during
this process because monitoring is essential at this stage
otherwise work can be destroyed and would be set back for
days.
Exclusive use of Stained Glass
The use of stained glass ensures distinct advantages for Gems
of Glass that is not duplicated in the market place.
- It is a very difficult medium to work with. Therefore,
although around for years the time and patience to execute
this type of expertise is not formulated easily. Many
people resort to clear glass, where time limitation, and
labour factors are non existent.
- It will not fade or corrode over time. Many of today’s
glass products are sand blasted or painted. Because this
application is done on the outside of the glass there
is no way to ensure its protection. It is vulnerable to
any abrasive that can damage its surface. Gems of Glass
is fused, therefore, the color will not fade, is dishwasher
safe and Food safe.
Structurally Sound
The melting of the stained glass into the clear glass ensures
additional strengthening properties not evident in today’s
products. |
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