This chain is silver and Niello work. Niello is much tougher than enamel.It comes in just one color - black of various tones - which contrasts highly with silver, the most popular base for niello work. Through the use of engraving, etching, chiseling or embossing techniques, an indentation is made in the work and filled with the black sulfide alloy. Niello is sometimes also misnamed black enamel. It is very decorative and smart.