8 Factors to Consider when Choosing Metals to Use in Jewelry Making: Workability
While silver, gold, and platinum have some similarity in working characteristics, there are also distinct differences that should be considered when designing a piece of jewelry. All the metals are similar when sawing, filing, bending, or polishing, although silver does give less resistance to saw blade, file, or pliers — even well-annealed 18-karat yellow gold [...] Gold Buyer’s Guide
What is gold? The word gold, used by itself, means all gold or 24karat (24K) gold. Gold has been a monetary standard throughout the history of mankind. Gold is a soft but heavy metal. What is a karat? Karat tells you what proportion of gold is mixed with the other metals. For example, 18 karat (18K) gold contains [...] Which Metal? Part 3: Strength
The next physical proper to consider when designing is strength. This factor has four parts: the hardness (resistance to being impressed), malleability (how much it can be worked without annealing), ductility (the ability to be drawn into wire without breaking), and tensile strength (how much stress it will withstand before breaking). Again, each alloy of [...] Birthstones
For centuries gemstones have been linked to the months of birth. It is a folk lore that wearing your birthstone will bring good luck. There is an endless selection available for those interested in their own birthstone or the stones of their children. January - Your birthstone is a lustrous, rich red Garnet. February – The stone [...] Which Metal? Part 1: Color Factor
What will it be – gold, silver, or platinum? Jewelry designers have a number of things to consider before making a choice. Several factors enter into each decision; one of the most basic is which metal to use. Many jewelers prefer to work only in gold, while others confine themselves to silver. And now, platinum [...] |
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