Description
Siam Niello/Nielloware 1950s Black Enamel Engraved Sterling Silver Necklace with Large Pendant Ornament Total Weight ~ 19.4 grams Enamel leaf shape link chain length ~ 16" Each Enamel Leaf Link ~ 1 /2 x 3/16"" Enamel Pendant ~ 2 x 1 1/2" Markings: "AMFARCO" "Made in Siam" "Sterling" This can be dated as a piece from the 1950s based upon its markings.It is marked with makers name AMFARCO & also marked Made in Siam which dates it to 1950's. It is also stamped Sterling. Niello/Nielloware isn't technically an enamel (which is made from a glass compound). It is a metal alloy slip material...typically composed of silver, copper, lead, & sulfur. But like enamel, the compound is added to the design as a powder or paste & then fired at a high temperature to melt it into the engraved metal. Another distinction of most nielloware, is that the niello is added to the negative space around the engraved design, rather than filling in the design itself. Although the finished product is more of a gunmetal color, the word niello derives from the latin word for black. Siam Niello/Nielloware 1950S Black Enamel Engraved Sterling Silver Necklace with Large Pendant Ornament
