Techniques: How do they
    make this stuff?

    The etching of metal is a multi-
    stepped process which imparts
    texture to the metal. Etching is
    most often done on metal
    before it is made into an object.

    My etching work begins with a
    picture I’ve drawn or a
    photograph I’ve taken. The
    metal is treated by fusing a
    photosensitive film onto it, and
    then the selected image is
    imprinted on the film by
    exposing it to ultraviolet light.  
    The metal with the imprinted
    image is then developed in a
    basic solution.

    After this, the metal is floated
    onto an aerated bath of acid
    salts: ferric chloride for nugold
    and copper; ferric nitrate for
    fine silver and sterling. After
    several hours, the imprinted
    image is eaten away by the
    acid salt, resulting in a very
    pleasing texture.
    Etching

    Vitreous enameling is an ancient
    art, with the earliest known pieces
    dating back to 13th century, B.C.  
    Finely ground glass is melted and
    fused onto metal in a kiln with
    multiple firings, resulting in an
    extremely durable, yet beautiful
    surface. The use of transparent
    enamels results in a surface with
    complexity and depth, while
    opaque enamels impart a very
    solid and dense color.  

    Many techniques are used in
    conjunction with enamels,
    including cloisonné, where fine
    silver or gold  wires encase the
    glass in cells. Pieces made in this
    way are often fired 25-30 times.

    Vitreous enamels are not paints,
    nor are they plastics (resins). Their
    quality and longevity far exceed
    these more modern materials.

    The techniques used to make         
    these small works of art require
    years of education and practice,
    and each piece is not only
    uniquely designed, but carefully
    executed.
    Enameling
Hmmm. . .ever
wonder what
NuGold is?

or, what the heck
is "Argentium?"

Click here to solve
the mystery!
Redefining Precious