What is the difference between cloisonné and champlevé?

In cloisonné, the cells that hold the enamel are created by soldering thin wires onto the surface of the base metal. In champlevé, the cells are carved or etched directly into the metal itself. The visual result can look similar, but cloisonné tends to have finer, more intricate cell shapes because the wires can be formed freely.

Is antique cloisonné valuable?

Fine Chinese and Japanese cloisonné pieces from the 17th through to the early 20th century can be quite valuable, depending on the quality of the enamelwork, the complexity of the design, the age and the condition. Museum-quality early Chinese pieces fetch high prices; later export pieces are more accessible.

Is cloisonné jewellery durable?

The enamel in cloisonné is glass and will chip or crack if dropped or hit hard, though the metal cell walls provide some protection. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, and store pieces separately. With reasonable care, cloisonné pieces last for centuries, as the antique market demonstrates.

What is cloisonné?

By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026

Definition

Cloisonné is an enamelling technique in which thin strips or wires of metal are bent into shapes and soldered or glued onto a metal base, creating small enclosed cells called cloisons, from the French for partitions. Each cell is then filled with powdered enamel, which is fired in a kiln until it melts and fuses into glass, and the process may be repeated several times to build up depth. The result is a richly coloured, glassy surface divided by fine metal outlines. Cloisonné has a long history in East Asia, Byzantine art and medieval Europe.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between cloisonné and champlevé?: In cloisonné, the cells that hold the enamel are created by soldering thin wires onto the surface of the base metal. In champlevé, the cells are carved or etched directly into the metal itself. The visual result can look similar, but cloisonné tends to have finer, more intricate cell shapes because the wires can be formed freely.
Is antique cloisonné valuable?: Fine Chinese and Japanese cloisonné pieces from the 17th through to the early 20th century can be quite valuable, depending on the quality of the enamelwork, the complexity of the design, the age and the condition. Museum-quality early Chinese pieces fetch high prices; later export pieces are more accessible.
Is cloisonné jewellery durable?: The enamel in cloisonné is glass and will chip or crack if dropped or hit hard, though the metal cell walls provide some protection. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, and store pieces separately. With reasonable care, cloisonné pieces last for centuries, as the antique market demonstrates.

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