Almost all of the jewelry is made at least in part from DICHROIC GLASS. This glass has a high tech vacuum-deposited iridescent coating that appears to change color as the light moves from in front to behind it. The reflected color is most brilliant on a black base glass, but the alternate transmitted color can only be seen through a transparent glass. Both versions are used extensively in Barbara Mellen's earrings.

Barbara is the glass artist. Choosing from several hundred AMERICAN MADE glass products, she cuts tiny pieces and fuses them together in a kiln. The results are usually cut into smaller pieces and fired again. Most earrings are fired twice, but some styles are fired only once and others three or four times.

Sarah Mellen and Hilary Greenwell make the sterling silver pendant bails and earwires. They use Argentium sterling silver, which is tarnish resistant and unlikely to cause problems for people whose ears are sensitive to regular sterling. They also pack wholesale orders for shipment and welcome retail customers.