Delicate metal work (8)
I believe the answer is:
filigree
'delicate metal work' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for filigree that I've seen before include "Delicate ornamentation" , "Ornamental lacework in gold or other metal" , "Delicate work in twisted gold or silver wire" , "decorative work" , "Ornamental work using fine wire" .)