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In this article, I will discuss the basics of metal preparation for the enameling process. Some experienced enamelists may disagree with part of this. But remember, these are general rules from a metallurgist's point of view, not an enamelist's. The article is not intended to outline or recommend any particular preparation or enameling technique, but rather explain why we do certain things to precious metals during the process of enameling..... (2003) Complete Story
Standard yellow gold alloys which are based on gold-silver copper can be used for many production processes. They could be called ‘all-purpose’ alloys. However, optimising the alloys for the particular manufacturing process to be employed is possible by use of other alloying additions which can influence relevant properties such as castability and grain size as well as the mechanical ones, for example, strength, hardness and ductility. Only a few elements (e.g. zinc, silicon, iridium, cobalt) have proved to be useful additions for modifying carat gold alloys without detrimentally changing other relevant properties.... (2002) Complete Story
Throughout the history of jewelry making, metalsmiths have strived to perfect not only their artistry, but their materials as well. In this ongoing quest, innovative metallurgists have produced new white metals in an attempt to combine all the virtues of existing metals while eliminating all the disadvantages. Their goal was to create a metal that resisted tarnish and firescale, that was both malleable and durable, that had a pure white color, and that didnt cost a fortune.
The majority of these experimental alloys have been based on traditional alloy recipes with the addition of a few other elements. Most alloys gained some resistance to firescale and tarnish only to sacrifice the necessary malleability, or they added costs by requiring the metalsmith to buy new tools and buffs to prevent contamination.... (2006) Complete Story
Today, platinum is enjoying its renaissance. In the U.S., platinum consumption has risen by more than 700% since 1990. More jewelers are carrying platinum jewelry, and consumers are becoming more aware of the most noble of all metals. Many jewelers are still confused as to the platinum alloys available, their application and purpose, this paper will attempt to clear up some of these issues....
(2000) Complete Story
In this presentation I attempted to provide you with information on platinum alloys to help you make an informed decision as to which alloy to employ for your manufacturing venture. There are several alloys I did not mention, mainly because they are experimental and have not found their way into the main stream. An alloy is chosen for its capability, ease of recycling and many other criteria. It must be user friendly, scratch and bend resistant and hold your stones securely. It is further of importance that it can be finished with few or no problems and hold a shine. These alloys that can do all this are here. They are on the market and can do just what you are looking for. It is sometimes just a matter of breaking old habits to see a major improvement in your product.... (2004) Complete Story
