United States Congress – District 3

Although not a new item, enamel detailing on Charms is very much back in the fashion spotlight. Enameled Charms have been available for many years and have added color and highlights to charm bracelets around the world. These types of charms are also very much sought after by collectors as well as those that just enjoy a bit of fun on their bracelet.

Enamel Charmsare made like other charms and can be a variety of styles from hollow to solid, flat styles of charms or three dimensional charms. Each of the many style of Charms can also be enameled to add a touch of color and brilliance.

The actual process of making enamel Charms is more detailed than may be imagined. Each and every charm has to go through several steps and some may be repeated depending on the style of the charm.

Generally most Charms with enameling are painted by hand, however some are also produced by machines. Typically the newer laser technology and computerized systems have increased the amount of machine painting, but only on large areas of the charms.

The detailed work of enamel charms is still largely done by artists by hand. Each color is added separately with patterns and multicolored charms requiring several different applications of the paint. This makes these charms very much in demand by collectors and charm lovers.

After each application of paint, the charms are left to dry completely. Once on color on the Charms has dried, other colors can be added in turn. This sequential application keeps all the colors bright with clean, clear edges where the colors meet.

After all the painting is completed and the charms have dried, at least one layer of clear enamel is applied to the entire painted surface of the charm. In some cases several layers of clear enamel may be added, with each layer drying between applications.There may be more than one layer or enamel added, but after the charm is completely dry it is then polished to a high sheen. Charms will also have the metal backing polished to provide a beautiful charm from all directions. The enamel is very durable and will protect both the paint and the silver, making these Charms a great addition to day wear styles of bracelets.