Astro GemŽ Textural Glazes Info

Characteristics: Astro Gems are non-moving textural glazes that contain 2 sizes of tiny crystals. When fired, these crystals provide jewel-like spots that compliment and enhance the stone type or dead matte surface of the glaze. These unique glazes can be applied to greenware or bisque. For the best results, apply them to greenware. When applied to bisque, they require more drying time between coats.

Application:

  • Non-Toxic
  • Apply to greenware or bisque, preferably greenware
  • Apply with an oval mop or soft fan
  • Apply 3 even coats, crossing each coat at 90 degrees
  • Can be intermixed for other shades
  • Do not apply inside food containers
  • Fire to shelf cone 04

Stir and shake well to disperse the crystals before application. Avoid heavy application in recessed areas of detailed pieces. Any puddles should be brushed out before the glaze dries. The firing range is shelf cone 06, but they can be fired up to shelf cone 6. They will become darker the higher they are fired.

Notes:

  • AS-518 Amethyst requires a special method of application because some of the crystals may appear as light spots. It is suggested one full coat of UG-10 Crimson opaque underglaze be applied to the greenware, then 3 coats of AS-518.
  • Most any color can be made by intermixing Astro Gems or by adding One Strokes translucent underglaze to AS-510 White Opal.
  • When applied to greenware or bisque, remember to stilt the piece. If you wipe off large crystals after application of each coat, the piece will not need to be stilted.
  • Seal with AC-301 Repellent Sealer for a water-resistant surface.
  • Over unfired Astro Gems, you can decorate with One Strokes, Underglazes, White Foam, Clear Glaze, Stroke and Coat and other Astro Gems. Specialty Red Glazes can be used over fired Astro Gems.
  • To use fired gold over Astro Gems, apply and fire clear glaze on the area where gold is desired.
  • Astro Gems are non-toxic, but their porous surface makes them unsuitable for items intended for food and drink.
  • Most of the colors are stable when fired to shelf cone 6. The surface becomes vitrified and the background develops a slight sheen. They can be applied to either porcelain or stoneware.