Ancient Jasper Over Smokey Merlot over Obsidian by Olivia Hirsch

Obsidian, Smokey Merlot and Jasper Combo Tumbler

by Olivia Hirsch

Ancient Jasper over Smokey Merlot over Obsidian

By Olivia Hirsch

Ancient Jasper over Smokey Merlot over Obsidian is a dramatic Cone 5–6 glaze combination that blends deep black, rich burgundy, and earthy mineral tones into a surface reminiscent of weathered volcanic stone. The interaction between these three AMACO Potter’s Choice glazes creates strong visual depth while allowing each layer to contribute its own distinctive character.

Obsidian forms the foundation of the piece, producing a glossy black background that enhances the movement of the upper glazes. Smokey Merlot develops over the dark base with flowing wine-red and charcoal tones, adding depth and subtle variation across the surface. Thin streaks of Ancient Jasper introduce warm earthy browns, muted golds, and rusty highlights that break through the darker layers and give the tumbler its natural stone-like appearance.

Because both Smokey Merlot and Ancient Jasper are active glazes, the final result varies depending on application thickness and firing conditions. Applying Ancient Jasper as light brush strokes or selective accents allows the underlying colors to remain visible while creating attractive areas of movement and contrast. Heavier applications may increase glaze flow and produce softer transitions between colors.

This combination performs especially well on textured stoneware forms, mugs, tumblers, and decorative vessels where the flowing glazes can collect around curves and edges. The glossy finish emphasizes the depth of the layered colors while the contrasting warm and cool tones create an organic, handcrafted appearance.

As with many layered glaze combinations, small differences in clay body, glaze thickness, kiln atmosphere, and firing schedule can noticeably influence the final surface. Testing on your own clay before glazing finished work is always recommended.

Glaze Details

• Base: AMACO Obsidian — 3 coats
• Middle: AMACO Smokey Merlot — 3–4 coats
• Accent: AMACO Ancient Jasper — brushed selectively over the upper section (approximately 2–3 coats)
• Firing: Cone 5–6

The result is a rich layered finish that combines glossy blacks, flowing burgundy, and warm mineral accents into a surface that feels both modern and naturally weathered, making it an excellent choice for functional pottery and artistic ceramic work.

Credit: Olivia Hirsch