What do bird feathers, butterfly wings, and anodized niobium
all have in common? They all get their
vibrant colors from interference colors. Interference colors are created when
nanostructures on feathers, butterfly wings, or even the niobium oxide layer on
anodized niobium alter the reflective properties of the light. Think of looking through a clear glass prism
and seeing a rainbow. That's a bit of a simplification; but, it's close.
The niobium oxide layer forms when niobium is subjected to
electrical current while being anodized.
That layer causes the light to reflect and refract in ways that to our
eyes, creates vibrant colors. The
beautiful colors created are all structural meaning that no pigments are
involved. This layer is very durable and
never needs to be polished. Simply store
your jewelry away from other jewelry that might scratch it and it will provide
years of enjoyment!
