Materials science: Enamel

Expressive. Vibrantly colored. Timeless.

Enamel is a glass-like coating applied to metal and fired at high temperatures. It gives jewelry and accessories intense colors , smooth surfaces , and a durable finish . Enamel is particularly valued in the Gothic and alternative subcultures for its high-contrast designs , symbolism , and graphic accents .

What is enamel?

Enamel is molten glass permanently bonded to a metal base (e.g., stainless steel, copper, brass, or zinc alloys). The firing process creates a hard, colorfast surface that has a high-quality appearance and precisely highlights details.

Properties & Benefits of Enamel

  • Color-intense & brilliant
  • Smooth, closed surface
  • Scratch and abrasion resistant (when used properly)
  • Durable & dimensionally stable
  • Ideal for symbols, patterns & contrasts
  • Timeless look

Enamel is ideally suited for jewelry where color and attention to detail are paramount.

Applications of enamel

Enamel is frequently used for:

  • Pendants & Amulets
  • Pins & Badges
  • Rings (decorative elements)
  • Gothic & Occult Jewelry
  • Decorative elements with color contrasts

In the Gothic scene, enamel is often used to combine dark metals with strong color accents .

Care & Cleaning of Enamel

Enamel is easy to care for, but should be treated gently:

  • Clean with a soft, dry cloth
  • Avoid bumps and hard blows
  • No harsh cleaning agents
  • Store in a dry place

This keeps the surface smooth and color-intense for a long time.

Enamel & Responsibility

Enamel:

  • Increases the durability of jewelry surfaces
  • It protects the metal from external influences.
  • Is resource-saving refinement possible for long-term use?

The focus is on consciously chosen materials and durable workmanship.