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Astro Gems are Certified AP Non-Toxic, safe for use by artists of all ages when used according to manufacturer’s directions. Astro Gems are not recommended for dinnerware as they exhibit surface textures such as cracks and crevices. While the glazed surface may pass lead & cadmium leach tests, and therefore legally considered Food Safe, attempts to adequately clean the textured surface may cause the underlying porous ware to absorb water and fail. Recommended for ornamental use only.
Mayco Astro Gems
Astro Gems™ are an underglaze-based textural glaze that contains tiny crystals.
GENERAL USE
Stir and shake for 5-6 seconds before use – you’ll want to make sure the crystals are evenly dispersed in the glaze before applying. Apply 3 smooth, even coats to properly fired shelf cone 04 bisque using a soft brush, such as a CB-604 #4 Soft Fan Brush. Try to get the brush fully saturated (loaded) and apply alternate coats in a perpendicular direction to the previous coat (helps to evenly distribute the crystals on your surface). Fire to shelf cone 06.
AS-510 White Opal Astro Gem can be tinted using Mayco Underglazes. You may find success mixing stains – always conduct small tests before using on a wider scale. Mayco recommends using the darkest color of the Fundamentals Underglaze as the white will lighten.
Crystals to make Astro Gems!
Makes any underglaze into an Astrogem or Sandstar.
Add 1.5 grams to a 2 oz. jar of underglaze, Amaco Velvets or Mayco UGs.
ABOUT US
Since our founding in 1985, we’ve been on a journey of continuous evolution. Our mission is to create a welcoming place for our customers to shop, offer top-quality products, and deliver exceptional service. We’re also dedicated to fostering a great work environment for our team, ensuring that our business remains a fulfilling and enjoyable way to sustain our livelihoods. Every day, we strive to blend tradition with innovation, shaping the future of our community and our craft.
WHO WE ARE
New Mexico Clay is a REAL store with REAL people, where our legacy spans over 38 years at the same location. We're not just a store—we’re a community of 22 dedicated individuals committed to serving you. Once a top distributor of Duncan ceramics in the USA, we've adapted and grown even after Duncan's closure. Today, NMCLAY is proud to produce millions of pounds of clay annually for potters, hobbyists, and giftware manufacturers alike.
BRANT PALLEY
Brant Palley, a native of Albuquerque, began working for the Kings in 1985. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from UC Irvine and a Master of Fine Arts from Otis Art Institute and Parsons School of Design, along with five years of intensive retail experience in Atlantic City, NJ, Brant was well-prepared to take the reins. The Kings, recognizing his expertise and passion, entrusted the business to Brant, who acquired it from them in 1987. As a potter at heart, Brant is particularly passionate about the clay side of the business, which remains a central focus of New Mexico Clay to this day.
