Q: Where does glass get its color from and why is red glass more expensive than any other color?

MACNEIL: It’s perhaps not very well known that colored glass is achieved by using oxidized metals to create the color within the glass. Historically many different elements were experimented with, but over time only the ones created with metals maintained their color intensity in all situations including direct sunlight. A prime example where the capacity to hold color is critical are the stained glass windows in churches, mosques, synagogues and cathedrals. They were positioned to get the most light possible throughout the day and the richness of the color was vital to their aesthetic.