What is enamel – and what is it made of?
Enamel is a unique materialmade from purely natural raw materials . A very low-melting-point glass made of silicates and oxidesis applied to a base material such as steel, cast iron, or stainless steel.
In an oven at around 850 °C,this glass mass fuses with the metal within a very short time.
The result:
➡️ Glass on iron
➡️ completely non-porous, mechanically, odorless and tasteless
➡️ extremely heat-resistantand scratch-resistant
This combination makes enamel one of the most natural and durable materials in the kitchen.
Why enamel is truly handmade
Every enamel product is a piece of craftsmanship.
The shapes are first formed from sheet metal in the factory, and the handles are welded by hand. Only then does the multi-stage enameling process begin.
Typical characteristics of handmade workthat are not defects:
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visible weldson the inside of the handles
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Small support pointson which the product was hung before firing.
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Slight color variations due to multiple enamel layers
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Minimal visible ironon very narrow edges, e.g., on flanged edges
These details tell the story of the journey from sheet metal to finished pot– and make each piece special.
Why can you see iron in some places?
Enamel cannot physically adhere to very narrow or curved edges.
Examples:
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bottom rolled edges
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open cut edges
This is not damage, but a material-related propertyof enamel – and a typical distinguishing feature of genuine handwork.
Why do hollow handles have a narrow seam?
Enamel consists of several layers:
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a dark base enamel
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a colored ceiling enamel
When a handle is welded on, a little of the base enamel can seep out during firing – this creates a fine seaminside the handle.
This is normal, due to technical reasons, and a sign of quality.
Strict quality criteria – tested & safe
Riess brand enamel products aremanufactured and tested according to the specifications of the European Enamel Authority .
Accredited testing laboratories (Food Inspection Institute & OFI Vienna) check them according to European standards for:
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Lead
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cadmium
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antimony
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barium
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zinc
➡️ 100% safe for contact with food
➡️ Ideal for allergy sufferers– even usable without problems in case of nickel allergy
Enamel for people with nickel allergies – absolutely safe
Because enamel is glassand forms a non-porous coating, the surface does not comeinto contact with nickel .
The iron core remains completely protected.
This makes enamel an excellent material for people with fragrance, metal or nickel allergies.
How robust is enamel? – And when can it chip?
Modern enamel is significantly more durable than before.
However, chipping can occur if:
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The product falls onto hard ground
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Collisions with metal objects are more violent.
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It heats up quickly (especially on induction).
The reason: Glass is hard – but not flexible.
If it is subjected to a concentrated force, it can chip off.
Why enamel needs to be heated slowly
All materials expand when heated.
Enamel pots have a slight curve by law – this is normal.
➡️ Slow, gradual heatingensures that the floor and walls heat up and expand evenly.
➡️ Heating up too quicklycan lead to floor deformations – and in the worst case, to chipping.
Our tip:
Always start at a lower level and increase gradually.
Pure sustainability: Enamel is 100% recyclable.
Enamel consists only of:
- Glass
- Iron
This means the material is fully recyclableand can be disposed of as scrap metal.
A product that remains in circulation for decades and can then be returned to the raw material cycle – it doesn't get much more sustainable than that.
Conclusion: Enamel – natural, durable & honestly handcrafted
Enamel combines the best of both worlds:
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the naturalness of glass
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the stability of iron
Handmade, high-quality, sustainable – and made with love.
The typical characteristics are not a flaw, but rather show how much craftsmanship goes into each product.
If you want to treat your home to durable, healthy and aesthetically beautiful kitchen helpers, enamel is the perfect choice.
