Sizing a ring with a fragile stone is possible with Argentium because you can spot solder it like you could gold. This is a heavy, cast Argentium ring with mother of pearl set into a bezel. I am going to use hard Argentium solder and a product called Extra Hands that works as a heat shield to protect the stone. I pack it around the ring to hold it and put plenty on the inside to help protect the stone, leaving the seam sticking out. I have placed a piece of hard solder into the seam and coat with Jel-flux. Then I come in with a hot flame. Heat both sides of the shank equally. I can tell by the color of the flame, that it is getting close to the temperature needed for the solder to flow. There. The solder flowed. It won't take long to cool, because the Extra Hands kept the ring from getting hot. You can see that the Mother of Pearl is fine.Follow renowned jewelry instructor Ronda Coryell as you learn a variety of basic techniques in Argentium Silver - The Finest Silver. In addition to learning how to make seven different rings in this tarnish- & firescale-resistant material - you'll learn many valuable tips and tricks that you will find useful as you work with this amazing new silver alloy. Topics Covered in the DVD: • Basic Properties of Argentium Silver • Fusing & Soldering • Texturing & Hallmarking • Hardening Properties • Proper Finishing Techniques • Surface Passivation • Adding a Patina The full DVD Techniques in Argentium - Volume 1 Basics is available for purchase ...
Tags: ronda, coryell, jewelry, design, metal, silver, argentium, tarnish, free, firescale, rings, torch, fire, technique, fine, quality, what
No comments:
Post a Comment