Silver snowflake is made by my girlfriend with an ancient technique for decorating precious metal objects, using hot enamel.
This technique and the resulting objects are called cloisonné. Cloisonné is a handmade technique which cannot be automated. The decoration is formed by first adding compartments (cloisons in French) to the metal body by soldering or adhering cloisonné wires or thin strips placed on their edges. These remain visible in the finished masterpiece, separating the different compartments of the enamel or inlays, which are usually of several colors. Cloisonné enamel objects are worked on with enamel powder made into a paste, which then needs to be fired in a kiln multiple time with the temperature of about 800 degrees.
Large rings, pendants, and sets with cloisonné are considered as artistic masterpieces and their value may be as high as expensive jewels.
More info: lenamel.com
