Jungle Gem™ Crystal Glazes Information
Jungle Gems are an exciting array of glazes that "explode" with jewels of color during the firing process. They consist of a base glaze with pebbles, granules and specks of contrasting glazes. During the firing, the crystals spread out to produce bursts of color. The base glaze may be gloss or matte. Jungle Gems are lead-bearing and should not be confused with the non-toxic Crystalites.

Application: Most crystal glazes require 3 coats. Those with a red glaze base require 4. If enough glaze is not applied, regardless of the base glaze, the crystals will not melt into the surface. It is easier to get good coverage if all but the last coat are applied without any crystals. Usually, the crystals settle at the bottom of the jar anyway making this easier to do.

Apply the first 2-3 coats with a soft brush. Mix the crystals into the remainder of the glaze and apply the last coat with the crystals. Avoid too many crystals toward the bottom of the piece. An over-application of crystals can cause the piece to split while applying too few can result in an unattractive piece. Try to apply them as evenly as possible.

  • Apply to properly fired shelf cone 04 bisque
  • Use a soft fan brush to apply the first 2-3 base coats and disperse the crystals evenly on the piece for the final coat
  • Fire to shelf cone 06, Fire to cone 05 if more flow is desired
  • Avoid a large concentration of crystals towards the bottom of the piece
  • DO NOT USE ON THE INSIDE OF FOOD CONTAINERS!

Notes:

  • A plain vertical shape, glazed with the base glaze, looks great if crystals are placed in a heavy "necklace" around the top of the piece, resulting in a cascade of multi-colored crystals flowing down into a field of plain color.
  • Crystal glazes can be used in glaze combinations with great results.
  • Many of the crystal glazes can be high fired up to shelf cone 6 with interesting effects. Individual tests should be made to insure the best results.