[Jewelry making - Article 00153] - Re: [Orchid] Argentium onlayed onto copper or bronze?

[Ellen Starr]

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>     I knew that Argentium Sterling fused to copper in a very melted
>     state because I worked with Suzanne Juneau at the Stuller Workshop
>     last April. But, I have not tried fusing it in a crisp manner, as
>     you describe. How fabulous that it works! Yahoo! 

>     How are you doing the fusing? I would suggest black flux for
>     working with copper, but I wonder what you used? What torch? Any
>     insights to share? 

    Just by chance, I did the fusing with flux that I use for 18K
    granulation. I was first trying to see how easy it was to granulate
    with 18K on the argentium - which by the way was beautiful. Since I
    had that flux out I used it, but it might be the secret to the
    'crisp' fuse. The solution I used was 1 part Batterns, mixed with 3
    parts water, 1 part hide glue or gum tragacanth and a little copper
    carbonate powder. This formula is from Kent Raible's granulation
    masters class that I took at Revere. The copper powder makes the
    flux lay nicely in place without pooling or bubbling and I only used
    a very thin layer because I wasn't sure if I even needed it. 

    Cynthia, Here's a link to a site I have some of my photos posted on:
    http://vestarr.zaadz.com/photos. I haven't finished anything with
    the argentium yet as I am just starting to experiment with it. There
    is a piece with Copper and sterling though. From what I've seen so
    far in my experiments, it makes me want to trade in all my old
    sterling and only use it. It's pretty wonderful stuff. I'll post any
    items to the site above when I finish them. 

Ellen Starr
Starr Design - Crystal, MN
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