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What is a Cloisonné?

Cloisonné

Cloisonné is a process in which enamel is applied to metal, by first outlining the metal surface with gold or silver wire into a design. The space between the wires is then filled with enamel and fired to a highly polished, glassy sheen. Many cloisonne designs feature flowers and butterflies. If a variety of enamel is used, the piece has a very colorful finish.

Cloisonné is a French word which means to be compartmentalized, be cut off from one another, to feel cut off, or shut out. It is pronounced clwa-zoh-NAY. The Japanese are very fond of cloisonne designs. In Japan the word is called "shippo" which means seven treasures gold, silver, lazuli, coral, amber and agate. Cloisonné is thought to have first been used in either ancient Persia or Egypt. The technique was imported to Japan in seventh century.

Examples of Cloisonné jewelry items: (click the pictures for more detail)  The first two are older C clasps.  The third photo is a locking C Clasp which is more modern

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