INLAY

Inlay is a decorative technique in which pieces of one material — precious stones, mother-of-pearl, metal, bone, wood — are cut into and set flush with the surface of another, forming a pattern level with the base. Unlike applied ornament, inlay is 'built into' the material, so it looks integral and refined. This technique is used in jewellery, weapons, furniture, musical instruments and accessories. Historically inlay with mother-of-pearl and silver was a sign of luxury and high craft in many cultures. It demands perfect precision of fit so the insets lie flawlessly flush. Inlay adds depth, an interplay of materials and a sense of precious, considered detail to a piece.