[Jewelry making - Article 00196] - Re: [Orchid] Accidental Copper Plated Gold

[Alastair]

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Hi Sarah,

    The copper plating would most likely be caused by the steel spring
    hidden inside the clasp. As to why the 14ct cable did not get plated;
    possibly the 14ct clasp was not submerged, or the spring in the 14ct
    clasp is stainless or more stainless than the spring in the 18ct
    clasp. There are many different grades of stainless steel, some react
    mildly in acid and others are completely immune to the acid. My acid
    tongs are of the immune variety. 

    To remove the copper plating I would first remove the clasp, then
    gently heat the chain in a soft bushy flame until the copper
    oxidises. Pickle it, and finish by hand using a brass brush and
    bicarb soda. Polish the clasp on the buffing wheel because heating
    the clasp will anneal the spring. Electro stripping may be a better
    way, perhaps someone will explain how. 

    If the clasp is not spring activated, then look carefully for a
    gilt-over-chrome jump ring or fitting (it should be obvious after
    the pickling as being extra cruddy), because chrome will also cause
    the plating to take place when in the pickle. 

Cheers, Alastair
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