FAQ

Cloisonné involves the use of “cloisons,” meaning partitions in French. I add fine silver and/or 24k gold partitions, which I bend with tweezers and my fingers to precisely match the design, onto the fine silver base to create wells that are then filled with vitreous enamel. This technique differs from champlevé, where designs are carved or cut directly into the silver base. I may use both cloisonné and champlevé techniques in the same piece.

For this work, the enamel starts as powdered glass, which is mixed into a paste and applied to the prepared silver base. I then fire the piece at over 1400 degrees in a kiln, melting the glass. By firing many layers of enamel, I achieve depth and subtle shading, with most pieces averaging 10 to 20 firings. Finally, the pieces are carefully polished to reveal a smooth, lustrous surface.

How do I care for my new jewelry?

• Avoid Water Exposure:  Cloisonné jewelry is sensitive to moisture.  Avoid wearing it while swimming or bathing.
• Clean Gently:  Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the jewelry.  Avoid harsh chemicals, cleaners, or abrasive cloths, as they can scratch or damage the enamel.  If needed, you can use a mild soap diluted in water, but make sure to dry the piece thoroughly afterward.
• Store Properly:  Keep your cloisonné jewelry in a soft, padded jewelry box or wrap it in a cloth to prevent it from being scratched or chipped.
• Handle with Care:  Cloisonné is a form of enamel, which is essentially glass.  Therefore, it can crack or chip if dropped or hit against a hard surface.