04 Mar Sell or Buy Enamel Rings in San Diego
Seen Above: An Antique Gold and Enamel “Capricorn” Ring Purchased by C. Blackburn Jewelers of La Jolla
C. Blackburn Jewelers specializes in antique and vintage fine jewelry. One type of estate jewelry we love to discover in San Diego is enamel jewelry. Enameling is an ancient technique of fusing glass to metal to create decorative objects, one which dates back to ancient Egypt, where enamel was used to create decorative beads, scarabs, and figurines. The art of enamel work then spread to other cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines.
In the Middle Ages, enameling became popular in Europe and was used to decorate religious objects, such as chalices, reliquaries, and crosses. It was also used in secular objects, such as jewelry and armor. During the Renaissance, enamel work reached new heights of popularity, with many artisans developing new techniques and styles.
Enamel jewelry is made by fusing a layer of powdered glass to a metal surface (usually 14k or 18K gold) using heat. The precious metal surface is first cleaned and prepared, and then a thin layer of enamel powder is applied. The jewelry piece is then fired in a kiln at high temperatures, typically between 750°C to 900°C, causing the enamel powder to melt and fuse to the metal surface. This process is repeated several times to build up layers of enamel, resulting in a smooth and durable surface.
There are several techniques used in enamel jewelry making, including cloisonné, champlevé, and plique-à-jour. In cloisonné, thin metal wires are used to create a design on the metal surface, which is then filled with enamel. In champlevé, recessed areas are created on the metal surface, which are then filled with enamel. In plique-à-jour, the enamel is applied to a metal framework, creating a stained-glass effect.
Today, enamel jewelry continues to be produced by some fine jewelry designers. It also is valued highly by San Diego estate jewelers and collectors of vintage/antique jewelry because of its vibrant colors, durability, and intricate designs. If you would like to buy or sell antique enamel jewelry in San Diego, contact C. Blackburn Jewelers at 858-251-3006 or send us a message below.
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Historical Pieces of Enamel Jewelry
The Plique-à-jour Pendant by René Lalique: This stunning pendant was created by French jewelry designer René Lalique in the Art Nouveau style in the early 20th century. It features a delicate, translucent plique-à-jour enamel design in the shape of a dragonfly, with gold and diamond accents.
The Chinese Lacquer Enamel and Diamond Necklace by Cartier: This exquisite necklace was created by the French jewelry house Cartier in the 1920s. It features a series of carved Chinese lacquer enamel plaques set with diamonds, and is considered a masterpiece of Art Deco design.
The Imperial Easter Eggs by Peter Carl Fabergé: Fabergé’s Imperial Easter Eggs are among the most famous examples of enamel jewelry ever created. These bejeweled eggs were made for the Russian royal family between 1885 and 1917, and each one is a marvel of craftsmanship and design.
The Liberty & Co. Enamel Caddy Spoon by Archibald Knox: Archibald Knox was a designer for the British retailer Liberty & Co. in the early 20th century. He created a number of beautiful enamel pieces, including a series of caddy spoons decorated with colorful enamel designs in the Celtic style.
The Louis Comfort Tiffany Enamel Necklace: This stunning necklace was created by American jewelry designer Louis Comfort Tiffany in the Art Nouveau style in the early 20th century. It features a series of enamel plaques in shades of blue and green, set with opals and diamonds.
