How does granulation decorate gold jewelry?

Granulation is a decorative technique in jewelry that involves applying minute grains or tiny balls of gold to the surface of a piece. These spheres, which can range from 1/60 to 1/180 of an inch in diameter, are arranged to form geometric or linear patterns, silhouettes, or are massed together to fill in specific areas of a design.12

This method is used to enhance both smooth and embossed metal surfaces, creating a texture of great richness. Historically, the technique reached a peak of sophistication with the Etruscans between the 7th and 6th centuries BCE, who used it to adorn elaborate earrings, beads, and figures such as sphinxes and lions. While granulation was widely practiced in ancient Egypt, western Asia, and later in southern Asia, it was eventually largely supplanted in Greek work by filigree by the 5th century BCE.12