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Custom Designed Jewelry Pmc

Sorry for the delay problems with my computer/email, links to solder articles on cooksongold

 http://portal.knowledgebase.net/article.asp?article=255136&p=11047

and from another article from cooksons I think I cant find the link.

 Is the piece suitable for hand torch firing?When deciding how to fire a piece consider its weight.  Pieces weighing 25g or less are ideal of for torch firing, but also consider that your piece should be of a relatively even thickness for torch firing to work effectively.  If your piece is of complex nature kiln firing is recommended to ensure even heat distribution. Preparation before firingBefore starting to fire its worth considering the preparation of your working area.  Make sure that you work in a well ventilated room, and that you have a dedicated area for soldering.  Ensure that you have a heat proof surface i.e. soldering sheet, and then place a soldering block on top to work on.  Plus consider you own safety with glasses, apron and tweezers and even protective gloves on hard to protect you whilst working. Test firingThe first time you torch fire clay, practice on a small piece to watch how the clay reacts to the heat, and to practice the firing process.   Preparation of the clayBefore you fire ensure you are happy with the shape and detail of your piece and that the piece is complete dry, as excess moisture will turn into steam causing the clay to expand or crack.   If your piece contains gemstone, shells, or even findings consider how this will react to direct heat. Firing the PMCOnce ignited adjust the torch flame so the flame is around 6cm, and the blue inner flame is around 4cm.  Hold the torch at 45 degree, about 5cm away from the piece using the outer flame first to warm and then bring closer to increase the heat, ensure you keep the torch moving keeping the flame on the piece.  First the binder will begin to smoke and then flame, burning away.  The clay will be then exposed and begin to glow red/orange (at sintering temperature). At this point continue firing the piece for 2-4 minutes depending on its size, be careful not to over fire the piece –if the piece beings to look shiny (indicating the surface is starting to melt) then move the torch away to reduce the heat. Once heated the particles fuse together and form a solid dense metal, and PMC3 only shrinks around 6% of its original size.  To complete the process let the piece cool down to room temperature.  Once fired silver PMC 3 becomes fine i.e. 99.9% pure - and can be hallmarked as fine silver.

 

Precious Metal Clay Jewelry

Teresa Boland Designs jewelry pieces are handcrafted using fine silver from Precious Metal Clay. All chains and clasps are sterling silver, and all stones are genuine gemstones, unless otherwise noted. Please contact her if you see a piece you like but would prefer a different length chain or some other modification, as she will accommodate those requests whenever possible. She also welcomes custom orders.



Spring Blossoms Bracelet
Handcrafted from fine silver and springtime blossoms found in Teresa's yard, the blossoms include lantana, lamium, laurel, catmint, and loropetalum. Each link features a different blossom and measures approx. 1/2" x 5/8 inches. Adjustable from 7" to 9" in length, with a sterling swivel lobster clasp.
$249



Pink Tourmaline & Peridot Loropetalum Bud Necklace
The handcrafted fine silver pendant features a highly detailed loropetalum sprig (buds and leaf). It measures approx. 1" in length and just over 5/8" across at its widest point. Pink tourmaline and peridot gems each hang freely from an 18" ball chain.
$57



Summertime Hydrangea and Pearl Necklace
This handcrafted fine silver necklace features a natural hydrangea petal, a hydrangea leaf, and a freshwater pearl. The petal, leaf, and pearl will all slide off the chain, so you can mix and match them and create a variety of looks to change with your mood. The petal measures approx. 7/16" wide x 9/16" long and the leaf measures approx. 1/8" x 3/4" with an 18" sterling chain.
$52


Teresa discovered Precious Metal Clay when she went to a Bead and Button show in Milwaukee and saw Kelly Russell's amazing work. At the urging of friends, Teresa started making jewelry, and she has been hooked ever since. A few years later, Teresa was able to take some classes from Tiffany Scott of Holly Lane Designs, and later took her certification class with Tim McCreight. Teresa spends many hours creating in her studio, and she is grateful to have an opportunity to share her pieces with you.