Collecting Cloisonné Lapel Pins

Cloisonné lapel pins, the most traditional of all types of pins, is also among the most collectible of pin types.

Most older lapel pins are either die-cast metal or cloisonné. From the French word for “cell,” cloisonné refers to the manufacturing method. A metal cell is formed with wire outlining the design. The wire cells are filled with enamel and baked to permanently set the design. The cloisonné technique dates back to 13th century Japan, but the Chinese made the art their own, creating elegant vases and other objects. A cloisonné lapel pin is a modern treatment of this ancient and beautiful art form.

True cloisonné lapel pins today usually have a copper base. Enamel colors are mixed separately. Each pin is fired one at a time in an enamel oven with temperatures topping 1600 degrees Fahrenheit to make sure the colors are baked on and will not run. After cooling, the pins are polished to remove any color bleeding and make them shine. Cloisonné lapel pins are extremely durable and their colors never fade; they remain vibrant indefinitely.

While the cloisonné process is intricate, a high-quality cloisonné lapel pin should not cost too much more then a high-quality die-cast or photo etched lapel pin. While it depends on the company, design, size of pin, and quantity purchased, a custom cloisonné lapel pin should cost about two dollars to manufacture.

With its “retro” look, a cloisonné pin may appeal to collectors more than other type of lapel pins. When you order a cloisonné lapel pin, you are helping support an ancient artistic tradition. Cloisonné lapel pins are also more like jewelry and lend themselves to a dressy style. If your lapel pin design includes a stone setting, cloisonné would be a good choice. It is an elegant, durable, and affordable option in custom lapel pin design.

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