ENSHINE uses lost-wax casting – an ancient technique dating back thousands of years and still widely used in modern jewellery production – to create the metal parts of our jewellery. It involves making rubber, wax and plaster models of a design before pouring silver or gold alloy into the mould.

Each jewellery piece is attached to a so-called tree whilst in the casting machine. Once done, the pieces are cut from the tree and checked in quality control to make sure each one has the correct shape and appearance.

Based on the design, metal parts may be joined together using soldering, an ancient technique. For example, gold parts can be bonded onto silver jewellery.

A rough polish is then applied to remove and smooth out uneven parts and prepare the metal piece for further adornment and refinement by our goldsmiths or stone setters.

Depending on the final design, a goldsmith will use a variety of different techniques to complete the design.

Stone setters set all stones individually by hand, utilising a range of beautiful settings that secure the gemstones and showcase them to great effect.

All pieces are given a fine polish for a beautiful and protective finish.

Plating is the surface coating of a metal. At ENSHINE, we use a precious metal called rhodium to plate some of our jewellery pieces. Since white gold alloy is actually slightly grey in colour, all Enshine white gold is plated with white rhodium, which creates a bright, durable, high-shine surface. On sterling silver, black rhodium is used to give a darker look.

OXIDATION

An oxidised finish mimics silver’s natural tarnishing process and is often used on sterling silver to give pieces a vintage look or add more depth to the design, either across the entire surface or placed strategically to highlight design details.

MIXING

First, the enamel colours are mixed. ENSHINE uses enamel with different transparency. Translucent enamel reflects the light or allows engraved metal to show through while opaque enamel adds bold, saturated colour, sometimes with a glitter effect.

APPLICATION

Next, the enamel is applied by hand using a needle. It is then carefully levelled with a toothpick-like instrument to make sure it is completely even.

FINISHING

Once the enamel has been applied, it is fired in a kiln to fuse and strengthen it. A flame is applied to get rid of any air bubbles.

Before the final and very thorough quality control, all jewellery is tumbled to give pieces a smooth and even look before ultrasonic cleaning removes any residue.