Abstract: A method of making silicon solar cells and other silicon photovoltaic cells. The method includes the steps of forming a silicon element having a metallic electrode coating on one surface of the element, applying to the other surface of the element a coating containing aluminum and silicon and heating the coated element at a temperature below the eutectic temperature of aluminum-silicon to form an antireflective coating of a fine matrix of silicon pyramids doped with aluminum. The matrix formed on the surface of the silicon has an overlying aluminum coating. A portion of the aluminum coating is removed to expose the matrix for use as a photovoltaic cell.