The art and craft of enameling on fine silver
Marine Fantasy necklace
Enameling is an ancient art which dates back to the third or fourth millennium B.C.E. and is still flourishing today.
Sparkles and Angels’ modern enamel on fine silver pieces are one-of-a-kind and handmade using a painstaking process.
First, I texture and dome a disc −or another shape – of fine silver, i.e. 99.9% silver. Why fine silver? Because it allows the already vibrant enamel colors to stand out even more. My preparations also include washing the enamel powders several times. I then apply up two layers of enamel to the back, and three or more layers of enamel to the front. The piece is fired in my electric kiln after each and every coat. I add precious 23K gold leaf or enamel threads in order to create a unique design.
Beryl Seas earrings
The result is wearable artwork that glows like precious jewels.
Deep Ocean
Beautiful, precious, special silver
A Celebration of Purple: sterling silver and Swarovski crystals
Silver is a precious metal. From prehistoric times, through Antiquity, to this modern era, mankind has recognized the appeal and the qualities of this beautiful metal. Items made from silver hold a special energy, look gorgeous, and make a good investment. Silver has been steadily increasing in value. Ten years ago, it was less than $5/troy ounce. Today — as of this writing — it’s about $40/troy ounce! **
Still, it is much more affordable than gold or platinum**, so you can give the gift of precious metal without breaking the bank. (You can gift yourself as well, since you deserve the very best!)
Silver is commonly found in 2 forms in jewelry: sterling silver, which is 92.5% silver, and fine silver, which is 99.9% silver. (Silver plated pieces only have a very thin layer of silver on top of a base metal.)
Earth, Fire and Air: sterling silver and hematite
Metaphysical properties of silver
Just Google “silver metaphysical properties” and you will find tons of information. I like what Michael Gienger wrote in his book “Crystal Power, Crystal Healing”:
“Silver releases the emotions and encourages proper expression of feelings. It promotes generosity and empathy. Silver helps us to become more flexible mentally or to remain so and to let go of influences and dependencies, particularly if these go hand in hand with feelings of helplessness. The imagination and the ability to visualize are all stimulated by silver… Silver also helps maintain control and balance on a psychic level…
Silver also enhances the ability to see varying qualities of light and to harmonize inner life rhythms with the cycles of nature.”
Little Birdies: sterling silver and gold fill
Sparkles and Angels' Blog 