Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Cloisonné?

A: Cloisonné is an ancient decorative technique where metal wires create compartments (cloisons) on a metal surface, which are then filled with enamel, fired, and polished to create colorful, intricate designs.

Q: Where did Cloisonné originate?

A: The technique dates back to ancient Egypt and the Byzantine Empire but became highly refined in China, especially during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Q: What materials are used in Cloisonné?

A: The base can be copper, bronze, I use fine silver with thin metal wires (often gold or silver) forming the cloisons. The compartments are filled with enamel made from powdered glass and minerals.

Q: How to care for my cloisonne jewelry?

A: Cloisonné jewelry is beautiful and intricate, with its enamel-filled designs separated by thin metal partitions. Because of its delicate nature, it requires special care to keep it looking vibrant and intact. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your cloisonné jewelry:

1. Avoid Contact with Harsh Chemicals

  • Perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays can damage the enamel coating over time. Always apply these products before putting on your cloisonné jewelry, and avoid spraying them directly on the piece.
  • Cleaning products and harsh chemicals (like bleach or abrasive cleaners) can also cause the enamel to crack or discolor. It’s best to keep your jewelry away from any harsh chemical exposure.

2. Store Jewelry Properly

  • When you're not wearing your cloisonné pieces, store them in a soft cloth pouch or jewelry box to protect them from scratches.
  • Keep them in a dry place away from extreme heat or humidity, which can cause the metal to tarnish or the enamel to crack. A cool, dry place is ideal.
  • Use anti-tarnish strips or pouches if your cloisonné jewelry has metal components (like gold and silver) to prevent tarnishing.

3. Clean Gently

  • Wipe with a soft cloth: After wearing your jewelry, gently wipe it down with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dirt, oils, or residue. Microfiber cloths are ideal for this.
  • Avoid Abrasive Cleaning: Never use harsh materials like rough sponges or brushes, as they can scratch or dull the surface of the enamel.
  • Water & Soap: If you need to clean your jewelry more thoroughly, use a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water and mild soap. Be sure not to submerge the piece in water, as this could affect the metal or enamel. Gently clean it, then dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.

4. Avoid Impact and Scratching

  • Cloisonné jewelry can be fragile. Avoid wearing it during activities where it might be exposed to knocks, such as sports or heavy manual labor. Impact or pressure can cause the enamel to crack or the metal to bend.
  • Be mindful of sharp objects that may scratch the surface, especially on the enamel sections.

5. Regular Inspections

  • Check the metalwork and enamel regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose parts. If you notice any damage, take the piece to a professional jeweler who can repair it properly.
  • If the enamel begins to fade or chip, it may need to be re-enamelled or restored, which can be done by a skilled artisan.

6. Limit Exposure to Extreme Conditions

  • Heat: Avoid wearing your cloisonné jewelry in hot environments (like saunas or hot tubs), as intense heat can cause the enamel to expand or crack.
  • Water: Avoid wearing cloisonné jewelry in the water, whether in the shower, pool, or ocean. Prolonged exposure to moisture can loosen the metalwork or cause enamel discoloration.

7. Polishing the Metal

  • If your cloisonné piece has metal elements that tarnish (e.g., gold, silver, brass), you can polish them gently using a jewelry polishing cloth. Be careful not to rub the enamel too hard, as it could scratch or damage the surface.
  • Avoid using metal polishers directly on the enamel sections of the jewelry.

8. Avoid Storing Near Other Jewelry

  • Because of the delicate nature of cloisonné jewelry, it’s best not to store it near other pieces that may scratch it. Keep it separate to prevent any damage from sharp corners or rough surfaces.

Q: How is Cloisonné made?

A:

  1. Thin metal wires are fused onto a metal surface to form the design.
  2. The compartments are filled with enamel powder.
  3. The piece is fired in a kiln at high temperatures to melt the enamel.
  4. The process may be repeated several times for depth of color.
  5. The surface is polished for a smooth, glossy finish.

Q: What are common uses of Cloisonné?

A: Cloisonné is used in jewelry, vases, decorative plates, religious artifacts, and even furniture embellishments.

Q: How can you tell if Cloisonné is authentic?

A: Authentic Cloisonné has visible metal wire divisions, a smooth and glossy enamel finish, and vibrant colors. Vintage pieces may show slight imperfections due to the handmade process.

Q: Is Cloisonné valuable?

A: Yes, depending on the craftsmanship, age, and materials used (gold or silver wires increase value). Antique Chinese Cloisonné can be especially valuable

Cloisonné Techniques

Cloisonné is a meticulous and time-consuming process that requires skilled craftsmanship. Below are the key techniques involved in creating Cloisonné art:


1. Base Metal Preparation

  • The core object is typically made of copper, bronze, or sometimes silver or gold.
  • The surface is carefully cleaned and smoothed to ensure proper adhesion of the metal wires and enamel.


2. Creating the Cloisons (Wirework)

  • Thin metal wires (gold, silver, or brass) are bent and shaped into intricate patterns using tweezers and small pliers.
  • These wires are attached to the base by soldering or gluing to form small compartments (cloisons).
  • The design is usually inspired by traditional motifs, such as flowers, dragons, or abstract patterns.


3. Filling with Enamel

  • The compartments are filled with enamel paste made from powdered glass mixed with water.
  • Each color is applied separately, with different minerals used to create various hues.
  • Artists carefully layer the enamel using fine brushes or small spatulas.


4. Firing in a Kiln

  • The piece is fired in a kiln at 800–1000°C (1472–1832°F) to melt and harden the enamel.
  • The enamel shrinks slightly during firing, so multiple layers (typically 3–12) are applied and fired repeatedly to achieve depth and richness of color.


5. Polishing and Finishing

  • Once the final layer of enamel is fired, the surface is carefully polished using fine abrasives, water stones, and charcoal to create a smooth, glossy finish.
  • Any exposed metal (wires or base) is gilded or plated with gold or silver for an elegant look.


Variations of Cloisonné Techniques

  1. Chinese Cloisonné – Often uses bold, intricate patterns and thick layers of enamel with deep, vibrant colors.
  2. Japanese Cloisonné (Shippo) – Features finer wirework, sometimes with transparent enamel for delicate shading.
  3. Plique-à-Jour – A variation where the enamel is applied without a metal backing, creating a stained-glass effect.
  4. Western Cloisonné – Often influenced by Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, sometimes incorporating modern synthetic enamels.

Valuation of Cloisonné: How to Determine Its Worth

Cloisonné pieces can range from inexpensive decorative items to highly valuable antiques worth thousands of dollars. The value depends on several key factors:


1. Age & Historical Significance

  • Antique Cloisonné (100+ years old) is highly sought after, especially from the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties in China.
  • Pieces from the Meiji period (1868–1912) in Japan are also prized for their fine craftsmanship.
  • Older pieces often have minor imperfections due to the handmade process, which can add to their value.

📝 How to check? Look for maker’s marks, dynasty-era motifs, or consult an expert for an appraisal.


2. Craftsmanship & Quality

  • Fine wirework: The more intricate and delicate the wires, the more valuable the piece.
  • Smooth enamel finish: High-quality Cloisonné has a smooth, polished surface without air bubbles, cracks, or uneven glazing.
  • Multiple layers of enamel: Pricier pieces have deep, rich colors from multiple firings.

📝 How to check? Run your fingers over the piece—authentic high-quality Cloisonné feels smooth with distinct metal ridges.


3. Materials Used

  • Base Metal:
    • Gold or silver-based Cloisonné is the most valuable.
    • Copper or bronze-based pieces are common and less expensive.
  • Enamel Quality: Older pieces use hand-mixed enamels, which produce unique, rich colors.
  • Gilding (Gold or Silver plating on exposed metal): More gilding = higher value.

📝 How to check? If the base metal is exposed (e.g., on the bottom), look for a reddish hue (copper) or a gold/silver sheen.


4. Origin (Chinese vs. Japanese vs. Western)

  • Chinese Cloisonné (Ming/Qing Dynasties) → Bold, vibrant colors, thicker wires. Highly valuable.
  • Japanese Cloisonné (Meiji Era Shippo work) → Extremely fine wirework, sometimes translucent enamel. Can be even more valuable than Chinese pieces.
  • Western Cloisonné (Art Nouveau/Deco periods) → Often factory-made, still collectible but generally less valuable.

📝 How to check? Research the design style and compare it to known Chinese/Japanese Cloisonné motifs.


5. Condition

  • Perfect condition: No chips, cracks, or missing enamel = high value.
  • Minor wear: Small scratches or discoloration may lower value slightly.
  • Major damage: Cracks, missing enamel, or repairs significantly reduce value.

📝 How to check? Inspect under bright light. Hairline cracks may be visible but hard to see at first glance.


6. Rarity & Provenance

  • One-of-a-kind or imperial pieces (e.g., used in the Chinese court) are extremely valuable.
  • Signed pieces by known artists or workshops (e.g., Namikawa Yasuyuki in Japan) can fetch premium prices.
  • Provenance: If a piece has documentation tracing its history, it adds value.

📝 How to check? Research auction records, museum collections, or appraisers for similar pieces.