"Argentium possesses unique hardening abilities. Lab tests have shown that Argentium can be hardened in a process called Heat Precipitation Hardening.
You could use a kiln at 300 C 580 F for 1 hour (or) in an ordinary )oven at 260 Celsius /500 Fahrenheit for an 1 and one half hour or 205 Celsius /400 Fahrenheit for 2 hours.
After fabricating, Argentium or Sterling would be in an annealed state. Because you cannot do this hardening treatment with sterling, this allows Argentium to become almost twice as hard as annealed sterling silver. This means that delicate and complex shapes can be formed when annealed, and by heat treatment, increase the hardness and durability.
I've done a wear comparison test to help demonstrate this.
The pictures show the wear after both rings were worn on the same finger for one month. You can see the noticeable difference in scratches and luster."
Follow renowned jewelry instructor Ronda Coryell as you learn a variety of basic techniques in Argentium Silver - The Finest Silver. In addition to learning how to make seven different rings in this tarnish- & firescale-resistant material - you'll learn many valuable tips and tricks that you will find useful as you work with this amazing new silver alloy.
Topics Covered in the DVD:
• Basic Properties of Argentium Silver
• Fusing & Soldering
• Texturing & Hallmarking
• Hardening Properties
• Proper Finishing Techniques
• Surface Passivation
• Adding a Patina
The full DVD Techniques in Argentium - Volume 1 Basics is available for purchase now from www.rondacoryell.com!
Produced and written by Ronda Coryell ([ Ссылка ])
Directed, filmed and designed by Wes Clarke ([ Ссылка ])
Copyright ©2011 Ronda Coryell Designs. Rights Reserved.
The Argentium Flying Unicorn and logo mark are trademarked by Argentium International Limited.
Ronda Coryell presents: Techniques in Argentium - Volume 1 Basics / 68 mins / Color / Stereo / Mastered in HD
