Enameling is an art so ancient, its true beginnings are lost in obscurity. The oldest cloisonne' enameling is thought to date back to about the 13th century B.C. in ancient Greece, where Mycenaean goldsmiths inlaid enamel into gold rings.

Exquisite examples of decorative glass and metal objects have also been traced back to ancient Egypt, China and Japan, continuing throughout the ages with examples from Byzantium, Renaissance Italy, France, Russia and 18th century England. Until the 20th century, mostly only the wealthy could buy or commission a fine enamel.

Historically, it was customary for members of both nobility and church to support and nurture the talents of enamel artisans so they could spend all their time creating priceless enamels for their patrons alone. This tradition continued to more recent times, such as the intricate and mesmerizing enamel creations by Russian artist and goldsmith, Peter Carl Faberge', who became known in the 19th century as the court jeweler to the czars.

However, by the 20th century, enamels became more accessible, and not entirely reserved for the privileged class. Innovative breakthroughs in technology brought forth lively and startling new colors and methods to enameling. Louis Comfort Tiffany, working in New York at the turn of the century, produced amazing limited edition and individual enamels for clients. Many other artists continued throughout the century to make exquisite, small and refined works of art -- and as time went on, they were often designed with a more bold and fascinating freedom, characteristic of contemporary art.

The seductive quality of precious metals reflecting through a crystal-clear transparent enamel, or the subtlety of opalescent enamels, has managed to keep artisans spellbound for centuries. And still today the mystical process of glass fired onto metal, continues to fascinate & inspire.