Materials science: Enamel pins

Detailed. Vibrant colors. Durable.

Enamel pins are high-quality lapel pins where metal is finished with colored enamel. They combine precise shapes , vibrant colors , and long-lasting durability . Enamel pins are a particularly popular accessory in the Gothic, Punk, and Alternative scenes, adorning jackets, vests, bags, and backpacks.

What is an enamel pin?

An enamel pin consists of a metal base (e.g., zinc alloy, brass, or steel) into which the design is embossed or cast. The recesses are then filled with colored enamel and fired or hardened. This creates a robust, smooth, or slightly raised surface.

A distinction is usually made between:

• Hard enamel pins – smooth, flat surface

• Soft enamel pins – slightly indented lines, tactile contours

Materials & Construction of Enamel Pins

Metal base

• Zinc alloy (common)

• Brass or steel (depending on quality)

• Dimensionally stable & detailed

enamel

• Colored, glassy mass

• Baked on or hardened

• Color-intense & long-lasting

fastening

• Butterfly clasp

• rubber closure

• Safety lock (for larger pins)

Features & Benefits of Enamel Pins

• High level of detail

• Vibrant, long-lasting colors

• Robust surface

• Compact & lightweight

• Ideal for collectors and scene accessories

• Durable when used correctly

Enamel pins are perfect for symbols, logos, lettering and iconic motifs .

Applications of enamel pins

• Jackets & Vests

• Battle Jackets

• Bags & Backpacks

• Caps & Hats

• Collections & Displays

In the Gothic and alternative subcultures, enamel pins are a wearable statement .

Care & Durability

• Clean with a soft cloth

• Protect from strong impacts

• Store in a dry place

• Check the closure regularly.

This is how enamel pins retain their shine and color intensity for a long time.

Enamel Pins & Responsibility

Enamel pins are:

• Durable

• Reusable

• Repairable & collectable

Due to their durability, they are a more sustainable accessory compared to short-lived decorative items.