I created this pendant with enamel and cloisonne on fine silver. I added moriage- silver ball detailing on the last firing. It's an extremely time consuming and detailed endeavor often requiring between 20 to 30 steps.
The base is 99.9% pure fine silver which I chose because of how reflective it is. I also prefer transparent enamels because they reveal the beautiful quality of glass. Being able to see through solid material is mesmerizing.
The jewelry making process much like creating little sculptures. I am inspired by elements found in the natural world as well as architecture.
My jewelry designs range from boldly feminine statement pieces to small scale, lightweight and minimal earrings and necklaces. All are set on sterling silver or 14K gold filled and rose gold filled components.
I aim for simple elegance and take precise care to ensure a perfect balance between comfort and style.♥️ Like & follow abstract.sf on fb and ig to stay connected.
Here are the steps taken to make cloisonne enamelled jewelry.
Enameling Studio
Constant cleaning of worksurfaces and floors so no dust or contaminants affect the end result
Prep work
1 Set up studio with 3 tables 1ea for firing, enameling, metalwork/drilling/grinding
2 Make granules out of fine silver or gold- torch on charlcoal
3 Cut silver and gold foil- set aside or future use
4 Rinse transparent enamels as needed. Opaque enamels do not require rinsing
5 Make glass cabochons
Prepping the blank
6 Stamp or saw shape from sheet metal
7 File edges
8 Drill hole
9 Stamp with signature
10 Texture if desired with hammer or diamond drill bits
11 Clean vigorously with ammonia and water
12 Apply flux by sifting to face of piece
13 Counter enamel the back side
14 Bend cloisonne wires
15 Cut bezel wire, shape into circular fitting
16 Set cloisonne wire or bezel on first firing
17 Set stone or glass cabochon into bezel
18 Fill cloisonnes with enamel and fire (Repeat 5 to 9 times)
19 Redrill hole that has filled with glass with drill press and diamond bit
20 Grind flat and smooth to expose wire
21 Rince under water with Alundum stone and glass brush
22 Fire again
23 Add moriage (Piling up)
24 Drill for granulation (if desired)
25 Add granulation and/or gold foil and fire
Viola...finis!
I've named this particularly elegant statement piece "Rhythm in Design" It has much more depth, reflection and subtleties of transparent colors than can be captured digitally. I chose a solid sterling silver chain available in 16" or 18" A black dress would certainly set it off. I love it and hope you do too.
The base is an inherently valuable solid 22 gauge 99.9% fine silver.
I prefer working on fine silver because of how reflective it is. I also prefer transparent enamels because they reveal the beautiful quality of glass. Being able to see through solid material is so unique and gorgeous.
I consider the jewelry making process much like creating little sculptures and I am inspired by architecturally oriented designs. Enameling is much like painting so ro create paintings on fine silver is lije creating murals in the side if buildings.
My jewelry designs range from boldly feminine statement pieces to small scale, lightweight and minimal earrings and necklaces. All are set on sterling silver or 14K gold filled and rose gold filled components.
I aim for simple elegance and take precise care to ensure a perfect balance between comfort and style.
I also make originals in wax and have them cast in sterling silver which I then polish, texture, oxidize or add 24K gold foil with a process known as Keum Boo.