How minakari enamel is made

Shaping and base coat

A copper form is shaped, then covered in a white enamel base and fired in a kiln.

Painting and firing

Colours made of powdered glass and metal oxides are painted on, and the piece is fired again — often several times, one colour group at a time.

Recognising fired enamel

Fired enamel is glassy, cold and hard. Painted copies using lacquer or resin feel softer and warmer and can scratch. The back and inside are usually enamelled as well on genuine pieces.

• Glassy, cold surface
• Fine brushwork under magnification
• Enamelled back or inside
• No plastic sheen