[Jewelry making - Article 00035] - Re: [Orchid] Plating Silver with Paladium, Rhodium

[Barrie Wakeford]

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>     Silver has a wonderful colour which is much warmer than the
>     platinum group metals and so I would hate to plate it. Also for me,
>     the word "plated" conjours up an inherent "cheapness" with regard
>     to quality so I don't really want to get into plating myself. 

    With regard to "cheapness" plating was once considered to be an
    embelishment. During my aprenticeship we used to heavy etch silver
    and then plate with mercury/gold (not even going to mention the
    health and safety) on a regular basis. we also used both a red and
    yellow gilding solutions to add contrast. 

    While I will agree that silver has a great warmth to it. I still
    inlay it with gold and other metals when I feel a piece warrents it. 

    I also have the pleasure of making a special signet ring in silver
    and plating with black Rhodium, I dont know of a precious metal that
    is black I could use and get it hallmarked. I also gild on a regular
    basis as I repair old cigarette cases. 

    As to the problem with tarnishing, when there were decent amounts of
    nickel in Sterling, tarnish was something we never got. And you dont
    need to live near the coast, here in Northampton my silver tarnishes
    just as easily.. 

Barrie
www.jewellerybybarrie.co.uk
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