A method for producing an optical element includes a) providing a first shell which is transparent in the predetermined wavelength range, b) applying a coating which is optically effective for the predetermined wavelength range onto the structured portion, c) providing a second shell which is transparent in the predetermined wavelength range, which shell has an integral embodiment and a smooth lower side which has a complementary form to the form of the upper side, d) applying an adhesive layer which is transparent in the predetermined wavelength range onto the upper side of the first shell and/or the lower side of the second shell, and e) connecting the upper side of the first shell with the lower side of the second shell by means of the adhesive layer such that a two-shell optical element is produced, in which the optically effective structure is buried.