[Jewelry making - Article 00813] - Re: [Orchid] Advice from an ageing English goldsmith

[Charles Friedman]

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    I would like to put in my 2 cents on this one. 

    My wife is the real gold/silversmith/artist, I am the husband who is
    a dentist who has had advanced training in prosthodontics(crowns
    bridges dentures implants). My training has exposed me to many
    different materials and processes. By learning about materials and
    methods and by having "hands on" experience in these things I have a
    better mastery of them. I do not just have a theoretical knowledge.
    The actual hands on experience allows me to be more creative under
    practical conditions.  Many things sound good from a theoretical
    perspective, but in the real world they will not fly. 

    I am also involved in teaching dentistry at the USC school here in
    Los Angeles. The students do not get to learn how to do much
    laboratory work and I believe they are at a disadvantage on the
    learning curve because of this. 

    When you are forced to do the dirty work, you appreciate the
    intricacies and the requirements of the materials and the techniques. 

    Once having learned this, I have no problem with the use of
    technology and assistance with doing the work. In dentistry it would
    be impossible to get anything done without the support of excellent
    laboratory technicians. They probably know more than I do about the
    things they do all the time. I am the director, but I am aware that
    it is impossible to be perfect or know everything. 

    By having this familiarity with materials and methods one can
    calculate the best method for carrying out a design: whether it be
    manual or automated or a combination. In dentistry there are
    numerous advanced CAD/CAM options, some of which actually make sense.

    Striving for excellence may require much "quiet time" for developing
    and executing the creative idea.  Few of us create using a gasoline
    chain saw. Sometimes using exotic materials requires new and advanced
    techniques.  The ability to change gears and forge ahead is easier
    when you have a good understanding of the materials. Sorry for the
    long monologue. 

    Charles Friedman DDS, Prosthodontist,Metal Spinner,CNC Engraver,
    Wanabee Artist!

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