VILAI SIAM SET Sterling Silver Niello Fan Form Pin Brooch & Earrings Set Vintage shops Antique E17

Antique Vilai Siam Sterling Silver Niello Fan Form Brooch & Earrings Set. Beautiful and highly collectable Siam Silver jewelry set in the form of a face fan. Dark black niello (enamel).

Both the back of the earrings and the fan pin are signed Vilai, Made in Siam, Sterling. The amazing large fan measures 2 3/4" by 2" high. The earrings measure 1 3/8" wide by 7/8" high. Set has a combined weight of 34.2 grams. All three pieces are in excellent vintage condition. Nice patina with no damage and light tarnish.

The country of Siam changed its shops name to Thailand in 1939, then changed it back to Siam in 1945, and finally renamed it Thailand in 1949. Most Siam jewelry is made from sterling silver, with black 'enamel ' style detail. The black and silver jewelry is called Siam Silver niello ware, after the black enamel style technique called niello used in create it. Occasionally you will find fabulous colored Siam Silver, with green, blue, red and or white enameling instead of the classic black niello work. It's believed that Siam Silver became highly desirable in the Western Hemisphere between the 1930's and 1970's. A popular theory is that servicemen and women working in Far Eastern countries (such as Siam/ Thailand) sent home this kind of jewelry as gifts. This is probably a true story in regards to its general recent popularity, though it's important to note that the country of Siam/ Thailand has a long history of metal work and enameling techniques; Siam niello work has been quietly collected in aristocratic and royal circles for centuries. The Siam Silver is becoming increasing desirable and prices are rising especially sets like this one. ;