Niello is a black mixture of copper, silver, and leadsulphides, used as an inlay on engraved or etched metal. It can be used for filling in designs cut from metal. The Kievan Rus technique for niello application was first shaping silver or gold by repousséwork, embossing, and casting. It would then be sanded smooth and buffed. Finally, a silver artisan would add minute details by hand. Filigree was often used for additional ornamentation. Nielloware is classified as only being black and silver colored. Other colored jewelry originating during this time uses a different technique and is not considered niello. The heat of the furnace would blacken the niello and make the other ornamentation stand out more vividly. The Thai version is called Ramakien. Important Thai cultural symbols were also frequently used.
