The creation of Isola Bella Jewelry. Part Two

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On February 26, 2024

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The creation of Isola Bella Jewelry. Part Two

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26 February 2024

In the previous article in this blog, we looked at the first 8 steps leading to the creation of the jewelry piece, going into the lost-wax investment casting technique.

Let's now go together to see what the final steps are for creating an Isola Bella Gioielli piece of jewelry.

Step 9 : Low temperature glazing to facilitate regeneration

A distinctive aspect of Isola Bella Gioielli's enameling process is the use of a low-temperature epoxy resin. This type of enameling allows for greater flexibility and ease in regenerating the jewelry in case of defects or to make changes in the future.

During the enameling stage, artisans use tools such as a fine brush, or an airbrush (a syringe that sprays resin through compressed air) to apply hot epoxy resin to the surface of the jewelry. The resin is formulated to have a low application temperature, making the enameling process smoother and safer for the jewelry.

This technique allows artisans to work with precision, ensuring uniform coverage and a high-quality finish. The low-temperature epoxy resin solidifies quickly, creating a protective layer that gives the jewelry a glossy, long-lasting appearance.

Interestingly, the resin used for the glaze contains a percentage of silicon, which contributes to its durability and firmness.

A significant advantage of epoxy is its ability to be regenerated relatively easily. Should defects occur or changes need to be made to the jewelry, the resin can be reheated to a low temperature and easily removed, allowing artisans to make the necessary changes and reapply the glaze without damaging the underlying jewelry. The latter, a characteristic of low-temperature enamels such as ours, or high-temperature enamels of fine jewelry brands.

Step 9-Enameling at low temperature to facilitate regeneration:

The enamels used by Isola Bella Gioielli contain no toxic components. Their compact surface allows them to be polished if necessary. If the jewelry suffers damage from heat or external acids, the outside of the enamel can be exported and polished, restoring its original beauty.

Enameling is done by color, and each color pass requires a firing period in a kiln, at 80 degrees, for two hours, before moving on to the next coloring step.

This unique feature of low-temperature enameling offers flexibility for both artisans and clients, ensuring that each piece of jewelry can be customized or restored without compromising the quality and integrity of the piece.

Choosing the surface to be glazed adds additional challenges to the process. It is possible to glaze on a flat surface with retaining edges, using the cloisonné technique, in which the glaze is spread over the surface so that it does not overflow or drip. Enameling on curved surfaces, such as prickly pear blades, presents a different challenge.

Enamel consists of two main parts: the chromatic part and the hardener. The hardener is used for flat and curved surfaces, and is called thixotropic, which means it makes the seal more stable, counteracting the effect of gravity. Some glazes are applied under vacuum, such as the cathedral glaze used to create the lacework of Sicily. In this case, a perimeter thread is created within the supporting surface and a color-soaked needle is used to attach it to the base deposited circumference. In this way, the glaze spreads out creating an even surface.

There are different types of coloring and resins for nail polish. You can use transparent, opaque, mother-of-pearl, fluorescent or glitter glazes, depending on the desired effect. In addition, you can mix glazes to achieve a variety of shades or insert lenticular microgranules of resin to create iridescent effects.

Enameling is an art that requires skill and creativity. Each piece of enameled jewelry is unique and carries with it the skill and craftsmanship of the artisan who made it. Isola Bella Jewelry is committed to offering high quality enameled jewelry, crafted with care and attention to detail to ensure that each piece is a unique and fascinating work of art.

Step 10: Passivation

After the galvanic process, all jewelry undergoes a passivation step. This treatment involves applying a thin layer of protective substances to the galvanized surface of the jewelry to increase its durability and resistance to external agents. Passivation may involve the use of substances that create a barrier layer between the jewelry and the external environment, protecting it from scratches, oxidation and damage.

Step 11: Assembly

This final step in the process of creating Isola Bella Gioielli jewelry requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that each component is assembled correctly.

During the assembly phase, artisans carefully select all the components of the jewelry, such as gemstones, pearls or other decorative elements, and carefully place them on the main piece. Using setting and assembly techniques, making sure that each component is securely attached and contributes to the overall beauty of the jewelry.

During this process, in order to ensure precise and high-quality mounting, artisans work with specialized tools and handcrafted techniques, ensuring that the jewelry has a solid structure and that all details are carefully finished. Each clasp, hook or ring is carefully checked to ensure that it is functional and secure.

Assembly is not only about assembling the components, but also about creating a harmonious and balanced design. Craftsmen consider the overall aesthetics of the jewelry, making sure that all elements fit together perfectly and create a unique and fascinating piece.

Step 12: Finishing and quality control

Once the mounting phase is complete, the jewelry is ready to be carefully inspected to ensure that it meets Isola Bella Gioielli quality standards. Every detail is examined, from overall finish to functionality, to ensure that the jewelry is of the highest quality and ready to be worn and admired.

Through the skill and dedication of Isola Bella Gioielli artisans, each piece of jewelry becomes a unique masterpiece. To wear a piece of jewelry created through this process is to own a timeless piece of art and beauty.

If you are looking for jewelry that is not only fine but also unique and features careful attention to detail, Isola Bella Jewelry is the ideal choice.

Explore our collection and discover the elegance and artistry that goes into every piece of jewelry we create.