Every little detail
The markings, the eyes, the expression. Familiar details, painted on a miniature scale.
THE ART OF ENAMEL
Painting in miniature.
A face you know, interpreted by hand in coloured glass.
Glass. Colour. Fire.
The portrait begins with finely ground coloured glass. Working under magnification, a painter builds the image a layer at a time, with repeated firings in a kiln at around 800°C.
It is a painted interpretation of your photograph: the shape of a face, its markings, the eyes and the expression. Small variations are part of the handwork.
Inside the studio
The work, in motion. From the kiln to the smallest brushstroke.
From kiln to portrait
Firing, handling and painting a miniature enamel portrait.
Painting a familiar face
A close view of the brush at work on a pet portrait.
A few fine brushstrokes
Small marks, placed carefully by hand.
Your portrait
From photograph to enamel
A design direction is agreed before the portrait is built in glass and colour.
Materials & possibilities.
The Portrait Pendant
Details & possibilities +
hand-painted enamel on 950 silver, in polished silver or 18K gold vermeil. Painted-face options run from 12 × 14 mm to 22 × 26 mm; one or two subjects depend on the size and composition.
DDIYA’s final sizes, chain options and price will be specified in your quote.
The Companion Ring
Details & possibilities +
950 silver signet rings, with painted faces from 9 × 11 mm to 16 × 18 mm. A single subject gives a small portrait room to be expressive. Polished silver and gold vermeil are distinct finishes.
Ring size, finish and DDIYA pricing will be confirmed individually.
The Heirloom Commission
Details & possibilities +
Explore solid 18K gold commissions. Size, gold weight, portrait complexity and any stones affect the quotation. Solid gold is different from a gold finish over silver.
DDIYA’s design fee, payment schedule and final quotation are still to be set.
Materials & details.
Is the portrait painted or printed? +
The portraits shown are painted by hand in vitreous enamel, then fired in a kiln. The image is a miniature painting interpreted from the photograph, rather than a printed photographic reproduction.
Silver, gold vermeil or solid gold? +
950 silver contains 95% silver. Gold vermeil is a gold layer over a silver base; the finish shown uses 18K gold at 3 microns. Solid 18K gold is a separate material, without a plated surface. Your quote should name the chosen material and finish.
How should I care for enamel jewellery? +
Handle gently and store separately. Avoid hard impacts, sudden temperature changes, swimming, perfume and harsh cleaners. Use a soft dry cloth on the enamel; do not use an ultrasonic cleaner. Silver and plated finishes need different care.
When will commissions be available? +
DDIYA is preparing its first collection. Availability, final prices, production time, delivery and aftercare will be confirmed before orders open. Each commission will have its specifications and terms agreed before payment.
Can I see my design before it is made? +
The proposed DDIYA journey includes a design review before production and a final photographic review before delivery, with the details agreed for your piece.