Why Hard Enamel is Right for You
Also called epola pins, new Cloisonné, Cloisonné II, Semi-Cloisonné, and Clois-Tech, hard enamels are known as the new Cloisonné and have been around for more than 20 years. They’re designed by pouring enamel in the sunken areas of the metal before it’s heated at very high temperatures. They’re then polished smooth to make sure that it’s at the same level as the metal edges.
Hard enamel pins are generally a top choice and should be your first option if you want an enamel pin with a sleek and shiny finish. The shine is created by the final polishing of the pin creating a luster and jewelry quality look and feel.
With that in mind, hard enamel can be the best option if you want enamel pins with a high-gloss finish. The smooth finish of hard enamel is the main difference from the textured finish of soft enamel.
The fact that it has a smooth surface and has been heated at very high temperatures makes it one of the most durable types of enamel pins. This is because its frontage cannot be easily scratched or exposed to elements that might cause damage. So if you want an enamel pin that is durable and can withstand being exposed to various hard surfaces and other elements, you can consider choosing hard enamel.
Just like soft enamel pins, hard enamel pins have ridges to keep colors from mixing. But instead of keeping the colors below the outline of the design, the color is added over and over to raise the enamel so that it’s on the same level as the metal edge. This, therefore, creates a flat finish to give it a sleek look.
The process of making hard enamel is a bit complicated but certainly worth it. The surface is first filled with the intended enamel color then baked or cured. The face of the enamel pin is then gently ground until it becomes smooth and flat. It is this combination of grinding and polishing that makes hard enamel so recognizable.
You, however, have to keep in mind that hard enamel may cost much more than normal enamel pins since they’re time-consuming and labor-intensive. All in all, they’re a great option, especially if you want an enamel pin that can last for years. The quality speaks for itself and you’re guaranteed that it won’t lose its shape, shine, or color over time.