What are the terms used to describe enameling techniques? |
Cloisonne enameling: This is accomplished by adding thin metal strips or wire to the surface of a metal object to create small cells (cloisons). These cells are either filled with molten glass or with powdered glass that is kiln fired. This technique was developed in Egypt before 1800 BC, although the name cloisonne was not applied until the eighteenth century. Cloisonne enamel is the easiest of all types of techniques to identify, as the metal wires are very recognizable.
Champleve: This is similar to cloisonne in that the enamel is applied to discrete cells separated by metal. However, in Champleve enameling, cells or troughs are carved into or cut away from the metal base, leaving a raised metal line between the cells which forms the outline of a design.The cells are then filled with molten or powdered glass and kiln fired.
Basse-Taille: First introduced in 14th century Italy. A cut relief, a design cut into a metal plate at various depths, is filled with translucent enamel, creating a 3-dimensional effect. The deeper the reservoir cut in the metal, the darker the color, with nearly transparent color possible in very shallow cuts. This technique allows for very subtle
shading.
Painted Enamel: In which two or more colors of enamel are painted atop one another. (The black, white and gray version of this technique is called grisaille). This style of enameling was first popularized about 1600. Although the white base enamel for this type of work is a true vitreous enamel, the subsequent layers of color are raw oxides or metal mixtures.
Guilloche: In this form of enameling, the metal surface is engraved with intricate circular patterns or waved lines. Translucent enamel covers this engine turning and creates a beautiful effect with dark and light lines caused by the varied depths of the plain and engraved surfaces. Very popular in Victorian and Edwardian jewelry, Guilloche enameled pieces are easy to identify by the wavy lines usually seen under the glassy surface. The enamel is frequently further decorated with designs (especially floral motifs) painted on the surface.
Plique a Jour: Probably the most difficult of all enamel types to master. Plique a jour enamel begins with a lattice or framework of wires similar to that used in cloisonne, but with no metal background attached. When filled with transparent or translucent enamel, the finished object resembles stained glass. This enameling technique was used frequently by the most skilled jewelers and enamellists of the Art Nouveau period.
Applied Cold Enamels: Resins, plastics, or paints may be applied to jewelry and decorative objects to produce the effect of enamel, but they share none of the techniques or composition of vitreous enamel. They create a lot of color for a minimal cost, but, these materials are less durable than true enamel. Because they require less skill and expense than glass enamel, they have traditionally been used on Costume jewelry, including some sterling silver pieces.
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