cloi·son·ne | ˌklȯi-zə-ˈnā
noun
A technique of enameling, whereby the enamel colored glass powder is placed into pockets or cells of metal, before being baked and cooled to solidify
Cloisonne, referred to as ornamental work in which glass, enamel, and/or gemstones, are split into strips of compressed wire which then become placed edgeways on a metal backings, typically found in gold pieces. Cloisonne is a French term also known as partition, originated in the Turkish culture. Cloisonne is a technique used in ancient history for creating small metal filaments and eye-catching glass enamels. Furthermore, the metal wires are used by bending them into shapes to create small designs; however, keep in mind the metal wires must have high walls that prevent the colors (if any were chosen) from bleeding into each other during the firing process. In order to properly clean cloisonne, you must first wipe any dust that has collected on the piece with a microfiber cloth. If the dust is stubborn, dip the corner of the cloth in a solution of 1 cup warm distilled water and 1 teaspoon of ammonia and gently rub onto the jewelry until it is clean. Lastly, rinse the piece thoroughly, and dry with the dry area of the microfiber cloth.
