These earrings are at least 20 years old. My friend Lyn needed some new ear wires. I used copper cloisonne wire back then. Now I use fine silver. It's fun running into old work.
These original cloisonne designs were drawn with flattened silver wire on a surface of enameled copper. Finely ground glass pigments were then mixed with water and applied to that surface and fused in a kiln at about 1400 f. There is a minimum of 8 separate firings per piece. Each one is then ground flat, re-fired and hand finished. Ear wires and findings are sterling silver.
After graduating with a BFA from Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia PA, I migrated out west. I did the usual restaurant stint and ended my career with food as a private cook. The woman I worked for showed me some cloisonne pieces she had made and I fell in love with the process. I have been privileged to sell my handcrafted cloisonne earrings, pins and pendants at the Pike Place Market in Seattle WA since 1984. You can find me there most Saturdays and 2 week days.
For information and pricing contact Rhonda at cloisonneart2@gmail.com