All the colours of gold

The fine art of enamelling is described as ornamenting a metal surface by fusing mineral substances over it. In metal decoration, enamelling is perhaps the most alluring and sophisticated. Particularly, when gold is enamelled, a huge spectrum of colours are attainable, each with a supreme lustre.

Lavishly used in elaborate Rajasthani jewellery for Indian royalty, enamelling has a rich history.

Heat is then applied which spreads the coloured liquid evenly in a dazzling rainbow. The enamel is then burnished with a wet stone resembling blue copper for a gleaming polish and a deep, deep shine.

These days it is unusual to see enamelling in fine jewellery circles but Catherine has loved this technique since her days at college. Now she elevates it to the next level with innovative designs using quality weight gold and stunning jewels. Her workshop methods are first to score or engrave the metal surface so that the coloured enamel granules are poured into the grooves.

Enamelling was thought to be the ideal accompaniment to an astonishing rare Tahitian Pearl in soft brown Autumn hues  (pictured). Glossy forest greens perfectly complement the exotic floral orange and yellow enamel glaze. The brooch design itself evokes an exotic tropical flower and is highlighted by an outstanding combination of yellow and white golds.