About

 

ABOUT ENAMELS

Vitreous Enameling is placing ground glass on metal and firing it at high temperatures around 1400 degrees to fuse it to the metal.  The oldest known enameled objects are three rings that were made in 1300 BC. There are many techniques with a few being, Cloisonné, Champlevé, Basse-taille and painting enamels. These can be used separately or used together in any combination. Most of my work has at least two of these techniques. They also may contain multiple materials that may include copper, fine silver, sterling silver, argentium silver, and 24k gold. Each piece is meticulously designed and handcrafted, meaning each is unique. Properly cared for enamels can last many lifetimes.

All items on this website, other than chains are designed and crafted personally by Kathy Lake.  As with any handmade art please expect slight imperfections or variations in style. Please contact for custom orders.


CARE FOR YOUR ENAMELS

  • Enamel is glass and can chip or crack upon impact. Be gentle when wearing and handling enamel jewelry to prevent damage.

  • Apply cosmetics, perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays before putting on enamel jewelry and DO NOT SWIM with it to prevent exposure to chemicals that can harm the enamel and metals. Avoid all chemicals

  • Clean enamel jewelry with a soft, damp cloth or a gentle jewelry cleaning solution. Avoid abrasive materials

  • Store enamel jewelry in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with padded compartments to prevent scratching or chipping. Keep pieces separated to avoid contact with other jewelry

ABOUT ME

For as long as I can remember I have loved creating anything and working with my hands. After working over 30 years as a nurse, I became disabled but still needed to work with my hands. 

I started teaching myself some simple techniques in metalsmithing and glass fusing. Then I heard about metal clay, and while taking a class where we enameled on our clay piece, I fell in love with enameling. For the next several years I took classes in person and on-line with some of the top enamel artists in the Country, as well as developing my metalsmith skills at Metal Arts Guild of Georgia.  I continue to strive for perfection. 

While I worked as a nurse, I was in a hurry all of the time. Working with glass and metal is very time consuming and meticulous. It helps me slow down, learn patience, and appreciate the beauty around me. Hopefully to capture a glimpse of that into an enameled piece of art to be worn forever.