Enamel in jewelry has existed for thousands of years. Essentially colored glass, powdered and applied most often to a metal base, is fired at sufficient temperatures to melt and form decorative surfaces. There are many types of enamel. We have chosen six types to illustrate.
Champleve - Channel are carved out of metal to make a well, which is then filled with enamel. The wells or partitions are part of the base, not applied on the surface.
Guilloche (basse taille) enameling - Transparent or translucent enamel is placed over metal, which has often been enhanced with a pattern. Often the metal is termed "engine turned" for the machine, which impresses tiny intricate patterns into the metal base.
Plique-à-jour - Delicate enamel that is laid between metal, but the backing has been removed. If held up to the light, it allows the illumination through the colored glass surfaces. This technique is similar to stained glass.
Cloisonné - Metal wires or similar dividers are applied to a metal base, and then enamel is applied in the formed channels.
En Plein - Large surfaces are covered with enamel, usually to form portraits or pictures or large areas of color. The famed Carl Faberge used this technique mostly in solid colors for many of his pieces.
Taille d'épargne - Shallow grooves are hollowed out from metal and filled with enamel. Frequently used during the Victorian era and filled with black enamel, particularly popular in the US. Like champleve enamel but shallower in depth and often with smaller cavities.