The Process

Cloisonné

Multiple layers of vitreous enamel is applied wet to a prepared base of fine silver or copper. Using tweezers and pliers, I manipulate fine silver or 24 karat gold Cloisonné wire into shapes which are then carefully transferred and fused to the base creating the design to be enameled. Between each layer, the piece is fired in a kiln until the enamel fuses onto the base. Fine silver and 24karat gold foils are cut and added to give the piece dimension and movement. Once the desired depth is achieved, the piece is ground down so that the surface is smooth and level. One last firing allows the surface to shine and reveal the depth and beauty of the enamels. I then design and fabricate a setting for the enamel focal. The setting for the piece in the slideshow below was created using fine silver Precious Metal Clay.

Champlevé

Translated from French, Champlevé means "raised fields". I first design and fabricate a base in fine silver metal clay which intentionally has negative space or cells, which will eventually be filled with enamel. Once the base is fired, burnished, and tumbled to a high shine, it is ready to be enameled. Multiple layers of enamel are applied wet with a fine tipped paint brush filling in the cells. Once the depth of the enamel is as high as the walls of the piece, the surface is ground down to a smooth, flush finish revealing the raised silver at the top surface of the piece. Additional firing and polishing gives the piece a shiny, smooth and glossy finish.