Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for producing improved artificial eyes is disclosed. The artificial eye comprises a substrate, graphical or decorative inks, and a protective barrier material or layer. Generally, the decorative ink is applied to the inner or convex surface of the substrate, preferably by pad printing techniques. The protective barrier layer may then be applied to the decorative ink layer in order to protect the decorative ink from physical wear, separation from the substrate, chemical reaction, and other degradation. The barrier layer may comprise, for example a rubberized coating, automotive undercoating, paraffin, wax, or other coating sufficient to protect the decorative ink.

Abstract: Provided are an artificial glass eye and methods of manufacturing such an artificial glass eye, wherein the methods comprise fusing together at least two pre-formed glass components. The eye is prepared from components including representations of the sclera, pupil, iris and cornea that are designed to fit together to form a realistic artificial glass eye. The components are designed to advantageously avoid trapping air between the components when heated, thereby reducing the possibility of fracture during fusion of the components into the final product. Also provided is a method for preparing a combined iris/pupil combined component to avoid the iris component and the pupil component from moving from their intended positions relative to each other during handling or processing.