Tradition of Packing "Old World" Vitreous Enamel | BowmanOriginals

Vitreous Enamel is glass that shares the same Coefficient of Expansion as the metal it is being fused to. This action happens at approximately 1500 to 1750 degrees F ... depending on the particular enamel and the metal it is being fused to. A number of factors affect the outcome including the cooling rate and the atmospheric conditions during the heating and cooling process. The lump glass is first ground up in a mortar and pestle. The ground glass is then sifted, washed and rinsed several times till the silt does not exists and the liquid is clear. Next a small amount of natural binder is added to the mix. This will help the enamel stay in place when  it is applied to the jewelry it is being fired onto. This process... Vitreous Enamel ... is the process we use. It is "Old World" enamel. The "modern" day process is simply colored epoxies which are mixed and then cured at room temperature.