What is enamel?
Enamel is glass on steel, inextricably bonded in a kiln. The result is a smooth, non-porous surface that has been used for centuries in kitchens, medicine, and crafts. YIV exclusively uses RIESS Premium Enamel – handmade in Austria since 1550.
The Origins of Enamel
Enamel was popular in many cultures for jewelry and handicrafts. The first finds, as grave goods in Mycenae, are 3,500 years old. Carl Peter Fabergé used enamel to decorate his famous Easter eggs for the Russian Tsars (1885–1917).
In the 19th century, Dr. Adolf Pleischl developed the first lead-free enameling processes – a milestone for healthy, durable tableware:
"It is generally acknowledged that the dishes in which food and beverages are prepared or stored have a significant, important influence on the good or poor quality of these foods." – Dr. Adolf Pleischl, Chemist & Physician
How is enamel made?
Behind every RIESS product are up to 40 work steps with the characteristic marks of honest craftsmanship:
- Cutting & Stamping of the steel blanks
- Deep drawing of the raw material into shape
- Welding of the handles
- Degreasing before enameling
- Milling of glass frit – quartz, clay, feldspar, soda, and potash are melted into glass and finely ground
- Application of enamel slip – by dipping or spraying technique
- Firing at 850 °C – enamel and steel fuse to form a composite material
- Quality control & packaging according to the criteria of the European Enamel Authority
The firing process creates the bright colors and the hard, non-porous, scratch- and cut-resistant surface.
10 Reasons for Premium Enamel
- ✅ CO₂-neutral manufactured in Austria
- ✅ Suitable for induction and all hob types
- ✅ Cut- and scratch-resistant
- ✅ Easy to clean and antibacterial
- ✅ Healthier cooking – no harmful substances, no BPA
- ✅ Taste-neutral – does not affect flavor
- ✅ Heat-resistant up to 450 °C (optimal operating temperature 220 °C)
- ✅ Durable with proper care – lasts for decades
- ✅ Available in many colors and designs
- ✅ 100% recyclable in scrap metal
Is enamel safe?
Yes. RIESS Premium Enamel is made exclusively from natural raw materials – free from lead, BPA, and heavy metals. Production meets the strict quality criteria of the European Enamel Authority. Enamel does not release any substances into food, making it one of the healthiest tableware alternatives available.
Enamel vs. Other Materials
- Enamel vs. Ceramic: Lighter, more break-resistant, induction-compatible
- Enamel vs. Teflon/Non-stick: No chemical coating that can peel off
- Enamel vs. Stainless Steel: More taste-neutral, aesthetically more versatile
- Enamel vs. Plastic: More durable, sustainable, free from microplastics
- Enamel vs. Cast Iron: Significantly lighter, easier to clean, cheaper
Discover YIV Enamel – handmade in Austria
You now know what enamel is – and why it's the better choice. Here are our most popular products:
- 🥇 YIV Trio Set (9 pieces) – CHF 139 – Mug, bowl & plate with lid, seal & strap. From freezer directly into the oven.
- 🍽️ YIV Kids Plate – CHF 39 – BPA-free, free of harmful substances, ideal for babies & toddlers.
- 🥣 Bowl Quartet – CHF 115 – 4 sizes for every occasion.
- ☕ YIV Enamel Mug – from CHF 26 – stackable, grill-suitable & multifunctional.
→ To the entire YIV assortment
Frequently Asked Questions about Enamel
Can enamel go in the dishwasher? Yes – RIESS Premium Enamel is dishwasher safe. Aggressive cleaning agents should be avoided.
Can enamel be used on induction? Yes – steel-based enamel is fully induction-compatible.
What happens if enamel chips? Small chips are visually annoying, but the tableware remains usable. High-quality enamel like RIESS is particularly thick-walled and resistant.
How long does enamel last? With good care, enamel tableware lasts for decades – it is an investment, not a disposable product.
Where is YIV enamel made? YIV uses RIESS Premium Enamel – handmade in Austria since 1550, CO₂-neutral production.
