Enamel Jewelry is an Ancient, Modern Artistic Medium

Jewelry dates among mankind’s oldest endeavors. Surviving relics of early necklaces have been found dating back 115,000 years, to some of the earliest settlements in Africa. The jewelry was made using shells and strands of dried fibrous threads.

The history of enamel jewelry accompanies the rise of Western Civilization

Handmade jewelry flourished with the very beginnings of commerce. The early Egyptians and the seafaring states that would become the Greek Empire also made jewelry, using such ornamentation both to enhance beauty and to designate status. Typical of their culture , centuries later the Roman Empire adapted much of the technology they encountered to make their own jewelry, worn by both men and women.

Relics of enamel jewelry, which is a very specific process of creating and imprinting deliberate and intricate designs onto a given design medium, dates back at least as far as the Greeks, who no doubt found its durable construction dependable whether on the high seas or on the difficult rocky slopes of the Peloponnesus. The craft of making enamel jewelry continued through the Middle Ages, remaining largely a medium for working-class and merchant-class peoples for whom precious metals and stones were economically impractical. The form enjoyed centuries of popularity but eventually waned as new and more fanciful styles rose to fashion in the Victorian Era of the late 19th Century.

Enamel jewelry begins again in the current era

Enamel jewelry has found itself a rebirth with the resurgence of interest in New Age spirituality and eco-conscious lifestyle of the past two decades, though many people – especially young people – are drawn to the medium’s simple elegance, as well. Handmade enamel artisans often work to incorporate natural and organic motifs and themes into the works, and when combined with a relatively simple nylon lanyard or threaded chain can create something that’s both rustic but durable at the same time.

The types of handmade enamel jewelry

Handmade enamel jewelry pieces typically take the form of brooches, pendants, or medallions. The comparatively larger size allows for a greater presentation of the artistic design while still remaining decorative. Some enamel jewelry artists also create larger-style signet rings that allow them sufficient design space.

Enamel jewelry and the current mood of the nation

Enamel jewelry lacks the luster of precious metals, but given the current economic climate they offer not only a cheaper alternative to fine jewelry but also a means of expressing distance from the culture of consumerism currently very much of fashion.

With their sealed and heat-treated enamel covering, such jewelry pieces are also durable, capable of lasting many years even after long years of rigorous wear and tear. This actually makes the per-unit price much more cost effective than traditional or mass-produced jewelry.

The most popular forms of handmade enamel jewelry

While many enamel jewelry artists are finding their inspiration in New Age symbols and designs, others take a more contemporary approach to their work, including portraits of popular cultural figures like Bob Marley and Che Guevara. While these are popular mostly among young people (especially college students) other designs remain popular with people from other walks of life.

Some enamel jewelry artisans create works based on a particular theme, including Celtic heritage and Christian symbols, including the crucifix and fish designs. The designs are typically available, as with so much of modern culture, in several different styles and background hues.

The art depends on the artist and artisan

Handmade enamel jewelry craftsman market their lines, sometimes called collections, both online and at fine jewelry boutiques and, increasingly, arts and crafts and arts galleries. Though many are proud that their work has come into such prestige, others remain focused on the meticulous attention such detailed creation requires.

Experts suggest when shopping for handmade enamel jewelry that customers consider the artist’s biography and mission statement. Many take pride in their artistic vision and will happily discuss it with curious visitors to their sites or brick-and-mortar stores. Ecommerce shoppers should also consider the artist’s shipping and return policies when buying online. Secure shopping sites and checkout systems that protect the user’s credit card information are also vitally important to a successful transaction.

Dylan Blue Jewelry Creations offers a variety of designer glass enamel jewelry pendants and other accessories in a variety of styles and designs. For a complete look at their catalog, visit them online at www.dylanblue.com.