It will be followed in September by closure of the neighbouring Arc International plant, which will bring an end to Sunderland's centuries long tradition of industrial glass-making with the loss of another 240 jobs.
Arc and Corning were originally both part of Sunderland Glass Works, which the American Corning took over in 1973.
They were split 21 years later, when Corning sold the domestic glassware side of the business - which included the famous Pyrex name - to Newell Rubbermaid.
Newell subsequently sold the business on to the French-owned Arc.
Corning retained the scientific laboratory and speciality materials manufacturing operation and it is that which closes today.
The company has blamed the factory's poor financial performance, coupled with spiralling running costs, for the decision.
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Cornings Closes For Final Time
An historic glass-making factory closes its doors for the final time today. The Echo revealed in October that the Corning factory at Millfield was to shut with the loss of about 100 jobs.