Up: Glassmaking
Reminiscences
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on a metallic surface, open glass will gather it on the exterior; the
slightest breath of air evidently affecting the glass with moisture.
Dew will affect the surface of glass while apparently uninfluential
upon other surfaces.
The properties of so-called
"music glasses" are strikingly similar.
Glass bowls, partly filled with water, in various quantity, will, as
is well known, emit musical sounds, varying with the thickness of their
edges or lips. When rubbed, too, with a wet finger, gently, the water
in the glass is plainly seen to tremble and vibrate.
Bells manufactured of glass
have been found the clearest and most sonorous; the vibration of sound
extending to a greater degree than in metallic bells.
Glass resists the
action of all acids except the "fluoric." It loses nothing in weight by
use or age. It is more capable than all other substances of receiving the
highest degree of polish. If melted seven times over and properly cooled
in the furnace, it will receive a polish rivalling almost the diamond in
brilliancy. It is capable of receiving the richest colors procured from
gold or other metallic coloring, and will retain its original brilliancy
of hue for ages. Medals, too, embedded in glass, can be made to retain
forever their original purity and appearance.
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