News

Enamel jewellery has been the rising star on the jewellery scene over the past few years and for good reason- it's an amazing art form that has been around for centuries and it brightens up and adds a pop of vibrant colour to classic metals like silver, copper and gold.   Title: The Best of Enamel Jewellery in the UK A Colourful Journey Introduction Jewellery has always been more than just an accessory; it's a form of self-expression, a way to tell a story, and a reflection of one's personality. Enamel jewellery, in particular, has gained popularity for its vibrant colours, exquisite craftsmanship, and timeless appeal. In the United Kingdom, a rich tradition of enamel jewellery-making exists, offering an array of stunning pieces that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. In this blog post, I will take you on a journey through the best of enamel jewellery in the UK, exploring its history, techniques, and showcasing some of the variety of pieces you can find. A Brief History of Enamel Jewellery in the UK Enamelling is a centuries-old art form that involves fusing powdered glass onto metal surfaces to create intricate designs and vibrant colours. In the UK, enamelling has a rich history dating back to the medieval period. One of the most famous examples of early British enamelwork is the Wilton Diptych, a portable altarpiece created in the late 14th century. This exquisite piece features intricate enamel panels with depictions of the Virgin Mary and various saints. During the Renaissance, enamelwork gained further popularity in England, with notable pieces being created for royalty and the aristocracy. The Tudor Rose, a symbol of the Tudor dynasty, often appeared in enamel brooches and pendants worn by the nobility. The 18th century saw a resurgence of enamel jewellery, thanks to the Georgian era's love for ornate and intricate designs. Miniature portrait enamel pieces became highly sought after, as they allowed individuals to carry the likenesses of loved ones with them at all times. In the 19th century, the Arts and Crafts movement, led by figures like William Morris and John Ruskin, embraced enamelwork as a way to counteract the industrialisation of the time. This movement revitalised the art of handcrafted enamel jewellery, emphasising intricate designs and a return to traditional techniques. The Enamel Jewellery Revival Today, enamel jewellery in the UK is experiencing a revival, with contemporary artisans combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design. . The resurgence of interest in enamelwork can be attributed to several factors, including a growing appreciation for handcrafted items, a desire for unique and personalised accessories, and a renewed interest in historical art forms as well as a renewed love of colour on precious metals. Many current enamelists love to work using simple geometric designs when making copper or silver rings, earrings or pendants. Rings are often made using a copper disc as a cabochon before setting it into a silver bezel, much like a traditional stone would be set.  Enamel Techniques and Styles Enamel jewellery encompasses a wide range of techniques and styles, each offering a unique aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular enamel techniques and styles you can find in the UK: Cloisonné: Cloisonné is an ancient technique that involves creating compartments (cloisons) on the metal surface with very fine silver or copper wire and filling them with coloured enamel. This technique allows for precise, intricate designs and is often used to create vibrant, mosaic-like patterns.   Champlevé: Champlevé is the opposite of cloisonné. Instead of creating compartments, this technique involves carving recessed areas into the metal and filling them with enamel. The result is a smooth, colorful surface with raised metal outlines. Plique-à-jour: Plique-à-jour is a challenging technique that resembles stained glass. Enamel is applied to a metal framework without a backing, creating a translucent, glass-like effect. When light passes through plique-à-jour enamel, it produces a breath taking play of colours. Basse-taille: Basse-taille involves engraving a design onto the metal and then adding translucent enamel on top. This technique creates a beautiful depth and shimmering effect, making it ideal for creating intricate scenes and patterns. Grisaille: Grisaille enamelwork is characterised by the use of various shades of grey enamel to create subtle, monochromatic designs. It often features delicate, detailed portraits and landscapes. Contemporary Fusion: Many modern enamel artists in the UK are pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques, blending enamel with other materials such as wood, glass, and gemstones to create innovative and unique pieces. The Best Enamel Jewellery Artisans in the UK Now that we've explored the history and techniques of enamel jewellery in the UK, let's introduce you to some of the best enamel jewellery artisans in the country, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs. Fred Rich  Tessa Packard Jane Geeson Alison Milner  Collecting Enamel Jewellery in the UK If you're considering starting your enamel jewellery collection in the UK, here are some tips to get you started: Research: Familiarise yourself with different enamel techniques and styles to understand what appeals to you the most. Explore the works of various artisans and jewellers to find pieces that resonate with your taste. Visit Artisan Studios and Boutiques: Many enamel jewellery artisans have studios or boutiques where you can view their creations in person. This provides an opportunity to meet the artists, discuss custom pieces, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craft. Attend Exhibitions and Fairs: Enamel jewellery often features prominently in jewellery exhibitions and craft fairs across the UK. Attending these events can help you discover emerging talents and rare vintage pieces. Work with a Specialist: Consider working with a specialist or consultant who can guide you in building your enamel jewellery collection. They can provide insights into the market, help you identify authentic pieces, and assist with valuations. Visit museums to learn the history behind pieces that date back centuries. Care and Maintenance: Enamel jewellery is durable but requires proper care. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, chemicals, and sharp objects. Clean your enamel pieces gently with a soft, damp cloth to maintain their brilliance. Conclusion Enamel jewellery in the UK is a vibrant and captivating world, blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary creativity. From the rich history of enamelling to the modern masterpieces created by talented artisans, the UK offers a treasure trove of enamel jewellery waiting to be discovered.  Discover Your Unique Piece: Start Your Enamel Jewellery Journey Today Ready to explore the world of enamel jewellery and find a piece that speaks to your soul? We invite you to browse our collections, where every item is more than an accessory – it's a work of art, as well as a vibrant expression of personality. Don't just wear jewellery—celebrate your style with colours and simple contemporary designs that reflect the true you.  Sign up for our newsletter to keep up with new products, behind the scenes, and insider tips on caring for your enamel treasures.  

Newest Arrivals: Gorgeous Enamel Jewellery Pieces That Will Wow You! Hey there! Brace yourself for some jaw-dropping jewellery pieces that are bound to leave you speechless. I'm thrilled to introduce our newest arrivals - a stunning collection of handcrafted enamel jewellery that will simply wow you. If you're a fan of unique and eye-catching designs, then you're in for a treat. Our latest enamel jewellery pieces showcase superb craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each piece is meticulously handmade, ensuring that you receive a one-of-a-kind treasure. From vibrant necklaces to delicate earrings and colour-pop brooch pins, our fresh arrivals in enamel jewellery offer something for every style and occasion. Whether you prefer bold and daring designs or subtle elegance, we have it covered. These new additions feature the latest trends in enamel jewellery, with intricate patterns, mesmerizing colours, and innovative techniques. They are not just accessories; they are wearable works of art that will elevate your outfit and make heads turn wherever you go. So get ready to be captivated by our newest handmade enamel jewellery collection. Explore the beauty of these exquisite pieces and find your perfect match. Don't miss out on owning a piece of wearable art that will truly make a statement. Visit www.maisyplum.co.uk  These stylish triangle earrings are the perfect drop and come in a selection of colours to suit your mood. They are cut from copper sheet, filed and sanded before they are fired in a hot kiln at 830 degrees. I use two different enamels to create this effect and colour.   These stunning raspberry pink  copper enamel earrings are textured with a metal stamp and then torch fired once the enamel is applied - 5 layers and 5 firings create this wonderful finish. A patina is then applied and polished, to enhance the texture.   If you love a brooch then these will certainly update your outfit, whatever the occasion. Inspired by nature and  I now offer contemporary floral pins and a more traditional style. Each are made by hand and therefore sizes differ, making each one a one of a kind gift.  

Enamel is essentially powdered glass that is fused to metal using heat. This can be in a kiln or via a hand or blow torch. The most popular metals to enamel on are copper, silver and gold, although steel is becoming a more popular choice. The powdered glass is mixed with oxides to give it colour, of which nowadays there are hundreds to choose from. It can be purchased in various forms which allows for different applications: as a liquid (the powder is suspended in water) lump form ( where it can be ground down in a pestle and mortar)  powder (which is generally sifted or wet packed using a fine brush or a quill).  The earliest enamel technique was cloisonne, where very fine wire was used to create cells where the powder was placed and then fired. This method is believed to have originated in Cyprus as early as 1350 BC. Another technique, Limoges was introduced in the late 15th century. This new method involved 'painting' with enamels without the use of wires to separate the colours, so they touched each other, therefore appearing more like a piece of painted art. Basse Taille is the French meaning for "low cut. It's a where a low relief pattern is  created in the metal prior to enamelling. Camaieu is a technique where a build up of white enamel is used to create highlights and light areas. A transparent base is laid first, beneath the whites. Champleve Enamel - the earliest known pieces date back to 400 BCE. Troughs or cells etched, formed with dies, or cast into the surface of the metal and then filled with enamel.   Plique-a-Jour dates back to the 6th Century AD. Very few pieces remain as the technique is very fragile. Enamel is loaded into the cells, but with no backing to them, giving them the appearance of stained glass. Plique-a-jour means to let in the daylight. Once applied, enamel is fired using a kiln or torch to between 800- 830 degrees. The powdered glass turns molten and fuses to the metal, resulting in a glossy finish. They can also be heated to the point of appearing like sugar grains, just fused but not molten which can look fantastic and gives it a more modern appearance. You can buy opaque enamels where the colour is of solid appearance as well as transparent colours where the colour allows the metal background to shine through. I find cool transparent colours work well on sliver and the warmer colours are beautiful on gold.Most opaques work well on all metals but it is advisable to test each colour first. I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and can understand my love of this wonderful craft. If you would like to see some of my work, then visit my website www.maisyplum.co.uk . You can also sign up to my newsletter for updates on products, sales and all things jewellery. Best Wishes, Jo   

Hi Plummies! It's occurred to me that I have a lot of customers asking me how to look after their jewellery once it is purchased, so I thought I would share few tips and tricks with you. Enamel jewellery is essentially glass powder that is applied to metal and then fused to it using heat,  if looked after carefully it can last a lifetime, however, if you're not careful with how you wear it, it can crack with abrasion and age. So here are a few ways to look after it:- Clean it with lukewarm water and a soft cloth and a hand soap, house hold cleaners will eventually damage the glass and is not recommended. Place your jewellery on a soft surface or cloth, preferably somewhere safe like a jewellery box so as to prevent the risk of it being knocked onto a hard floor or surface. Rings and bracelets or bangles take on a lot of wear and tear and can easily bang onto surfaces, causing the enamel to break and erode, so be extra careful with them to ensure they last. Tips For Cleaning Silver Use a jewellery cloth gently rubbing it over the piece until it buffs the silver to a high shine. Mix baking soda with white wine vinegar in a bowl and carefully place your silver jewellery in it for about an hour. Then wash it in clean water and dry thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth. Store your jewellery in anti tarnish bags Soap can build up on jewellery, especially rings and intricate designs, so using a soft toothbrush with water is a great way to get into difficult to reach areas Tips for Cleaning Copper Use white wine vinegar and soda in a bowl and soak your copper jewellery for about 30 mins. Rinse in clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Lemon juice and baking soda works the same way but the copper will need a longer soak, preferably overnight. There are plenty of commercial copper cleaners on the market that make easy work of copper, they are easily found in hardware stores nationwide.    

Lately, I have been on a real 'go slow' with my handmade jewellery business. I'm not sure what it is, but I've definitely struggled a little more lately.  When I first started making enamel jewellery, I was one of only a handful of people that I was aware of, that really enjoyed this art form, especially when working it into jewellery designs. However, it has really taken off over the past few years, and I love to try and create unique pieces that haven't been seen before, however, that is proving more and more difficult these days. So I have taken a bit of a back seat to see if my creative juices would return......I think I am there!  I'm excited to say that I am currently in the throws of making a new collection which features sterling silver, texture, geometric shapes and STYLE, all of course, mixed with a little fused enamel. Subtle colours will be teamed with sterling silver earrings, pendants and necklaces. Think how a lime green dress would look great with lime green and silver earrings but teamed with a silver and purple pendant? Colours that 'pop' and bring silver to life :) I have already started this journey and over the coming weeks I will be slowly adding items to my website.  I hope you like what you see and I am looking forward to creating some wonderful and unique jewellery for you all. If you are not already signed up to my newsletter, feel free to do so here  as there may well be a little offer on the way for subscribers only :)  You'll also receive special SUBSCRIBER ONLY discounts on new products and early bird discounts on any future sales!  So I am pleased to say I am back in the game so watch this space for some funky new designs coming up!  Have a great week Love  Jo

Well what a wonderful start to the first quarter of 2022! I'm absolutely delighted that MaisyPlum was recently selected as one of the finalists for the jewellery category in the Modern Maker Awards and also selected as one of their Top 100 small businesses for 2022.! It's such an achievement for a little business like mine and I am so thankful to be recognised for all the hard work that goes into creating colour inspired enamel jewellery that captures your unique sense of style. The awards were hosted by Bizbubble who are a small independent business network in association with Kraftspace UK  & Brandstorm Consultancy. There was stiff competition from some amazing creatives so to make it to the Top 100 was a real boost. Thank you to those of you who have stood by me over the years and supported my ventures - if you have just discovered MaisyPlum Jewellery and you love a little colour then head on over to my shop to see new and unique enamel, silver and copper jewellery that you won't find anywhere else!  If you wish to check out some of the other finalists also in the Top 100 then visit the Bizbubble website. Here are a few of my favourite small businesses that entered some of the other categories.... Fairley Bohemian FirstTMaster Jasmine & Lily Floral Wreaths Samm Designs  I Love Dolly