Simple yet so beautiful, mirrors have captivated us for centuries, reflecting our image and tracing the evolution of craftsmanship and technology. Not only that. Beyond their practical use, they seem to carry a certain mystery. How are they made? When did they first appear? 

Exploring their past and present can help us appreciate these everyday objects a little bit more and open our eyes to see them as examples of human ingenuity and imagination that they are.

How Mirrors Were Made in the Past

The story of mirrors spans centuries, weaving through a fascinating evolution of materials and techniques. Long before mirrors existed as we know them, early humans glimpsed their reflections in natural surfaces like rivers and lakes.

However, the earliest examples of solid mirrors were made of polished stone, like obsidian, a volcanic glass, producing a good reflective surface. As humanity progressed, metal mirrors made from copper and bronze came into use.

Ancient Beginnings

The first metal-coated glass mirrors are believed to have been invented in modern-day Lebanon during the first century AD. Soon, international trade took the innovation from region to region, and before long, the Romans perfected the method of coating blown glass with lead. Thanks to its rigidity, transparency, and malleability, glass quickly became the preferred material for mirror-making. 

Italian Rennaissance

Despite these breakthroughs, metal-coated mirrors remained rare and costly luxuries for centuries, far beyond the reach of ordinary people. It wasn’t until 16th-century Venice that mercury coating revolutionised mirror-making again, dramatically improving its production. Yet, the toxic nature of mercury continued to pose serious health risks.

The Modern Predecessor

Finally, in 1835, German chemist Justus von Liebig brought the true democratisation of mirrors by inventing the silvering process, in which a thin layer of silver is applied to the glass. It was then that production and the item itself became more affordable and accessible. 

How Are Modern Mirrors Made Today

Nowadays, mirrors are typically made by the wet deposition of silver or aluminium. But here’s how the mirror-making process all comes together, step by step: 

Glass Preparation

It all begins by cutting the glass to the desired shape and then polishing it to remove any impurities and contaminants. 

Coating

Then, the glass requires a series of coatings beginning with tin chloride, as silver will not bond directly with glass. Once that’s done, a thin layer of silver or aluminium is applied to the back of the glass. A solution of silver nitrate is reduced to metallic silver and deposited on the glass. This process is known as silvering.

Protective Coating

A layer of copper is often applied for durability and to protect the silver from oxidation and scratching. Paint is also applied to protect the metal coating from damage. Finally, the mirror is acid-washed and heat-treated to complete the manufacturing process. 

Mirrors In Any Shape & Size

Now that we know how does the mirror work and is made, it’s interesting to observe the many forms this beautiful item takes. 

Flat mirrors are quite popular and are the ones that offer us a clear, undistorted reflection. We often prefer them for everyday use, as they're versatile enough to fit almost any interior style. If you’re looking for a large wall mirror in the living room or a sleek vanity, that’s the one!

Concave and Convex mirrors are the drama queens of reflective surfaces. Concave mirrors curve inward, magnifying reflection and creating a more intimate focal point — perfect for your vanity set. Convex, on the other hand, curves outward, which makes them offer a wider perspective that can visually expand small spaces like hallways or entryways. 

Tinted, Antique, and Decorative Mirrors are the ones bursting with personality. They’re all about style and character. Tinted ones soften light with subtle hues like bronze or smoke. That cosy winter atmosphere? Sorted. Antiques bring vintage charm with their weathered glass and ornate frames. And finally, decorative pieces often come in unique shapes and elaborate detailing. They go beyond reflection to give your room a bit of an artful statement. 

In an age of fast innovation and technology, Smart Mirrors are emerging. Built-in displays give you the weather news while you brush your teeth in the morning, and can even offer you some beauty tips! If you have a modern home that values innovative technology, these futuristic options are a must-have!

How to Style Mirrors

The mysteries are debunked, and you’ve picked the mirror that perfectly fits your interior design. You’ve hung it on the wall, but something’s still missing to really make your piece stand out. 

One way you can spice things up is by layering your mirror with other decor, such as pairing it with wall art, shelves, and plants, to create a truly unique nook full of character and artistry. 

A popular styling idea is to turn a picture frame into a mirror frame. It can play a huge role in defining the mirror's style and enhancing its beauty. If you have a rustic interior, opt for a wooden frame with a natural finish. The classic black, white, and gold options, on the other hand, can go a long way for a more modern and minimalist home.  

Another approach is to play with the shape and scale. Place round mirrors close to angular furniture to soften the look, or cluster small framed mirrors together to make your own gallery wall effect. 

However you choose to style your mirror, follow your instincts and interior decor preferences to make sure it complements your home design.  

A Touch of History in Every Home

Mirrors have come a long, long way since the first humans felt the need to get to know their reflections. From lava obsidian to smart technology, their main role and beauty remain unchanged, still captivating us and inspiring us to make them a prominent feature in our homes. 

So, whatever type and shape catches your eye, your favourite piece is bound to fill your place with a reflection of who you are and what you love, the spirit of your home.