[Jewelry making - Article 01273] - Re: [Orchid] Tungsten Carbide - Where have we been?

[Karen Goeller]

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Ron,

    Thanks for bringing up a very timely and relevant topic. 

    For some (many?) of us, work with metals like titanium and tungsten
    carbide may be personally out of reach at the moment due to needed
    investments in special equipment (and additional training) to work
    with it.  Likewise stainless steel, although not as much specialized
    equipment is necessary. But you're quite right that it's a trend we
    need to pay attention to and figure out whether and how to work into
    our offerings. 

    In addition to my work with my original creations, I also stock
    manufactured wedding rings.  I've already advised several customers
    to consider a titanium band for their everyday wear, as they are
    fellows who work with their hands.  The ti is less likely to distort
    should an accident happen and may even be a bit protective of the
    finger in question in a crushing accident.  Of course, I also tell
    them that if they're working with their hands they SHOULDN'T be
    wearing rings while working -- not that they'll listen :-). 

    I'd love to hear from others on the list who have jumped into
    working with these new metals, particularly the independent/artisans
    who are working in their own studios.  Did you find it hard or
    expensive to get the new equipment and figure out the new ways of
    working?  Has it been worth it? 

Thanks,
Karen Goeller
kgoeller AT nolimitations.com
Hand-crafted artisan jewelry
http://www.nolimitations.com

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