can·ne·tille | kȧntēēy
noun
A firework decoration, which uses coiled and twisted gold wire to achieve a delicate, scrolling effect
Cannetilles are a type of jewelry that look like a firework design. These jewelry pieces, which became popular in Europe around 1820, are distinguished by their intricate, delicate filigree metal work, which resembles a bursting firework. Made of twisted gold or silver thread, cannetilles are often decorated with gemstones, adding to the firework-like look. The reason that cannetilles became popular in Europe in the 1820s and 1830s is because after Napoleon's fall, precious metals became scarce. Since cannetilles use thin, twisted metal to create a decorative look, they required very little gold or silver to create. This allowed jewelers to still make gold and silver jewelry at an attainable price during a time of precious metal scarcity. As precious metals became more abundant, cannetilles ceased to be created in favor of more metal-heavy pieces of jewelry. Therefore, cannetilles, while beautiful, were only briefly popular during Europe during the early 19th century.
