Liquid crystal variable optical device

A variable liquid crystal optical device for controlling the propagation of light comprises one or more transparent thin-film high-resistance layer (HRL) which is coupled with a substrate and an electrode structure. The HRL has a core layer and a cover or proximity coating, wherein the core layer material has a higher electrical conductivity and a higher refractive index than the outer layer material; And wherein the core and cover layer materials having substantially the same free energy of oxide formation. In this way, the electrode structure is stable in the environment and responds to an applied electrical current, to produce a spatially non-uniform magnetic field.