Cloisonne is an ancient and artistic process that was developed in the Orient. Elaborate decorative pieces can be created... moreCloisonne is an ancient and artistic process that was developed in the Orient. Elaborate decorative pieces can be created using this process. The effect is similar to stained glass but is not transparent. This process consists of many complicated steps. Cloisonné consists of a metal base topped with enamel. The different colors or sections of the piece are separated by a thin wall of metal. First the artist creates the metal base in the shape of the finished object, for example, a flower. Next a silver wire is soldered into place where separation is needed between the colors. Third, the enamel material is placed into the separated areas. Various chemicals create enamels of different colors. After the enamel powder is in place, the piece is fired. This firing creates the solid, glass-like enamel. After the firing, the piece is polished, and finally, the piece is gilded or electroplated. less