Enamel

Enamel in jewelry refers to a decorative coating applied to metal or pottery, known for its glossy, durable finish.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: Enamel as it pertains to the jewelry industry, involves the fusion of powdered glass to a substrate by firing, usually between 750 and 850 degrees Celsius. The powder melts, flows, and then hardens to a smooth, durable vitreous coating on metal, pottery, or glass. This technique has been used historically to add color, brilliance, and protection to various pieces of jewelry, ranging from small charms to large decorative items. Enamel can be applied in solid blocks of color, as well as in intricate designs, through various techniques such as cloisonné, champlevé, and guilloché, enabling a wide range of aesthetic effects. The resulting pieces are valued for both their beauty and longevity, capable of maintaining their appearance with minimal care for many years.