Enamel is back—and it's anything but boring

There’s something wildly charming about enamel jewelry. It’s colorful, glossy, and full of character—and it’s making a serious comeback. While it may look playful and modern, the craft of enameling has been around for centuries. From ancient Egyptian relics to Fabergé eggs, enamel has always added a splash of drama to jewelry.

What is enamel jewelry, anyway?

Let’s break it down: enamel is basically powdered glass fused onto metal through intense heat (we’re talking around 750–850°C). Once it melts and cools, it forms a shiny, durable coating that’s perfect for creating vibrant, eye-catching designs. It’s like painting, but permanent—and on precious metals.

A look at classic enamel techniques

Enameling isn’t a one-technique-fits-all situation. There are a few iconic methods, each with its own vibe:

• Cloisonné: This one’s fancy. Tiny metal wires are used to create cells on the jewelry surface, which are then filled with enamel and fired. Think stained-glass windows—but on your finger.

• Champlevé: Instead of building up, this method involves carving recessed areas into the metal and filling those with enamel. It’s perfect for bold, seamless color blocks.

• Plique-à-jour: The trickiest and arguably the prettiest. Here, enamel is applied in open spaces with no metal backing, so light shines through like a mini stained-glass masterpiece.

Why everyone’s suddenly obsessed again

Sure, enamel has history, but today’s designers are rewriting the rules. Bold color combos, emoji-inspired designs, quirky shapes—modern enamel jewelry is playful, statement-making, and totally Instagram-worthy. Brands like Alison Lou and Bea Bongiasca are leading the charge, proving that enamel is far from old-school.

Trendy, but practical too

Here’s the kicker—enamel isn’t just for show. It’s surprisingly tough. Properly fired enamel is scratch-resistant, won’t fade, and adds a layer of durability to delicate metalwork. So your favorite colorful piece? It’s not just cute, it’s low-maintenance too.

Final thoughts: A pop of personality

Whether it’s a rainbow-hued ring or a pendant with intricate enamel detailing, this age-old technique is having a modern moment. If you’re into pieces that blend craftsmanship with a pop of fun, enamel jewelry might just become your new obsession.