[Jewelry making - Article 00127] - [Orchid] Goldsmithing Research Question from a Fiction Writer

[Robert Whiteside]

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    The original figurine was not solid gold but mercury gilded an
    ancient method of gilding. Often the mercury, which is highly toxic
    and consequently not done today, in fact it is outlawed, is mixed
    with gold. Once applied to the article, heat is used to evaporate the
    mercury leaving a quite distinctive and heavy layer of gold. The
    metal was then burnished with agate stones for a unique luster. Today
    as the nephew of a highly experienced goldsmith, notices quite
    obviously that the gold finish is of modern electroplating method. To
    the trained eye, there is a world of difference in the finishes and
    is a dead give away. Stone setting techniques can and have been
    emulated so that would not be something suspect.  If it were cast
    from a mold, i.e. the original, the styling would be very similar and
    as I have said it would only be the finish that would be the give
    away. 

    is the original antique 60 years old?  if so. not very interesting. 

Robert

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