Blue Shell Enameled Copper Earrings

These copper patina enamel shell earrings start with pure copper sheet. I cut the shapes, form them with various tools and then torch enamel with lots of fire. Top part is copper with rustic patina, botton is different colors of vitreous glass enamel fused to copper. Very rustic and always one of a kind.

I also have aqua blue multi color version of the copper enamel shell earrings.

Aqua Blue Shell Enameled Copper Earrings

WHAT IS ENAMELED COPPER?

Enameling is glass fused to metal at high heat. Enamels are finely ground glass, like fine sand (or even more finely pulverized and mixed with an oil or adhesive). They may be opaque or transparent; their colors come from the use of various oxides.

The pieces are then torch fired, either by holding with a steel rod or by using a trivet on a stand. Several layers of enamel need to be applied one at a time to produce a thick enough finish.

Enameling is characterized by brilliant, non-fading colors, tremendous durability, variety of color effects depending on angle of light, and tremendous versatility – from jewelry (many people are familiar with cloisonne, which is a type of enameling), to bowls and wall pieces, to large-scale interior or exterior murals. The medium of enameling goes back two thousand years and forms part of the artistic heritage on six continents.

How to care for enameled copper: Enamel is glass, not paint, so it does not fade under ultraviolet light. There is no particular care needed, you can wash it with water and/or wipe it with a cloth if needed.