From Stones to Glass 

A stone, a glass, a shade of color... One message: local. 
My research project consisted in gathering stones from different regions of Israel, in order to create naturally colored glasses. 

At present, the methods of coloring glass are not sustainable. These methods, in addition to being toxic to use, are incapable of being recycled. Indeed, after being tinted, it is impossible to make it become transparent glass again. The objective was thus double. First, Salomé wanted to create a naturally colored glass. It was therefore necessary to find a material that served as a replacement for the dye in the glass. Secondly, this glass is intended to be local.

Why is it sustainable ? 

In order to accomplish these goals, the designer chose to use stones from different regions in Israel. Israel has a multitude of stone varieties depending on the region. From the Negev desert, to the Eilat desert, the choice is almost unlimited. Using local components is the basis of the ecological transition. To get to these regions, travel was done on foot or by bus, in order to have the smallest possible carbon footprint. Indeed, the collection of materials was also environmentally friendly. Following the recovery of the stones, they were analyzed to produce a naturally colored glass. A range of colors was obtained such as moldavite green, turquoise blue, indigolite, amber orange or tourmaline yellow and many others.

After 2 years of work, research and effort, this glass is now available for jewelry or industrial production. This glass has several characteristics. First of all, it is resistant up to 5 tons. In addition, it can withstand temperature changes without cracking. Shaping, sharpening, cutting or even drilling this glass is a more durable alternative to Haute-Joallerie. Between comfort and elegance, innovation and savoir-faire, a search for precision in the beauty of the detail has been made.

This project was carried out at the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design with the collaboration of Navot Morag, geologist and researcher at the Geological survey of Israel.