Opalescence Raku
Opalescence is a colored luster based on the use of a very specific glaze that yields a wide range of beautiful colorations and a particularly liquid reflective surface.
If anyone is familiar with one of my favorite gems, the Australian Black Opal, you’re familiar with the amazing colors that are produced within these beautiful gems. Opals are made of crystals caught in a liquid pool of something very similar to glass. Ceramic glazes are, in fact, glass, whether glossy or matte, and the effect of this glaze fired in a specific way often creates a finish that specifically reminds me of these beautiful opals. All of these pieces are fired to a temperature of 1900℉ to 1950℉, and the variations in color are due to the temperature the piece is at when pulled from the kiln and reduced in smoke.
This glaze producing the Opalescence finish yields a wide variation of colors and metallics. What is most impressive to me is the flowing liquid and reflective quality of the glass. The result is a beautiful high gloss metallic Opalescent finish. I often utilize my gold glaze on these pieces for accents.
Examples of the major Opalescence forms appear above. Visit the Shop now to see all Opalescence and other styles of Raku.