[Jewelry making - Article 00170] - Re: [Orchid] Tips on soldering gold

[Noel Yovovich]

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    I thought someone else would post this response, but I haven't seen
    it, so, for what it's worth...                     

    I had this problem too when I first started working with a little
    gold. I think part of it is just getting used to the difference
    between silver and gold. For example, gold doesn't conduct heat
    nearly as well as silver, so you can't just assume the heat is
    spreading throughout the piece, cuz it isn't. It is building up
    where your torch is, making it likely for that spot to melt if you
    aren't careful. Second, gold solder doesn't seem to flow as readily
    as silver, though perhapd I should try some of the ones recommended.
    But here's the main thing that solver the problem for me:
    (drum-roll, please) I switched from 14k to 18k. It is prettier, and
    it has a much higher melting point. I hate working with 14k, though
    after using 18 for a while, I was comfortable enough with gold that
    I can use it successfully. I used to melt so much gold! (sob) So,
    along with everyone else's advice, if you can, switch to 18, at
    least for a while. 14 doesn't save you any money if you melt it! 

Noel



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