Enthusiasts
Distinctive Contrast - Niello Jewelry
Isadoras
Each piece of antique niello jewelry exemplifies the distinctive contrast of multiple metal tones and emphasizes the rich luster of age.
If you are not familiar with antique jewelry, you may not know what niello is, or how it is created.
Niello is a black alloy commonly applied to silver due to the high contrast it creates.
Silver is etched or engraved and the niello alloy (copper, silver, and lead mixed with sulfur to create a black power or paste) is worked into the silver jewelry’s grooves. The metal is heated allowing the niello alloy to harden within the jewelry’s engraving, creating a high contrast look – similar to enamel, but distinctly different. The jewelry is then polished.
The way niello expresses contrast is subtly its own. Unlike enamel where color is layered over metal, both the niello alloy and the silver medium exist on the same plane, creating a pattern that is almost tapestry-like - built into the fabric of the piece.
The contrasting metals age together and exist together in a holistic way. This is why we find antique niello jewelry to be truly special. We love how the metal looks after it has been worn for many years; the act of being loved gives antique niello pieces a softer patina and richer luster than when they were new.
On its own, antique niello jewelry is striking and unique.
Mixing niello chains with straight-up sterling silver, makes for an easy, everyday combination.
Niello’s subtle beauty makes it perfect for layering.
Each piece of niello jewelry in the antique heirloom collection at Isadoras is so different and so striking – it will be hard to decide which is your favorite!
Top: Victorian Silver Niello Chain
Lower Left: Victorian Long Niello Chain
Lower Right: Silver Niello Watch Chain
Top: Circa 1870 Victorian Niello Silver Chain
Lower Left: Vintage Niello Locket
Lower Right: 1891 Russian Niello Box
Lower Left: Antique Niello Silver Chain
Lower Right: Antique Niello Silver Chain
Visit us in-store, or online. If you have any questions, you can reach our knowledgeable staff at 206.441.7711, or e-mail Isadoras Antique Jewelry at info@isadoras.com.
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