About fine silver A few weeks ago on Facebook I saw a post about the correct way to anneal fine silver. Being a professional jeweler, I answered with the comment that fine silver does not need annealing as it has no copper or other alloying metals in it and as such, can not work harden….
Author: Gerald Livings
Jerry came to his art by a different path. In the mid 80’s he took up making simple jewelry as a way to learn patience. Not expecting anything to come of it, he was surprised when jewelry making became a passion and then a career.
I am an eclectic individual having a love for many wildly different interests. In the fall of 1985 I made my first piece of jewelry in the recreation center at Ft. Hood Texas while serving in the US Army. With no experience at all I managed ,under a friends direction, to make a piece that was very simple.
this was my first introduction to what would later become a passion. A few years later, after leaving the service and moving to Madison WI., friends started asking for unique and quality pieces. Because of this I decided to pursue custom jewelry as a career.
When I im not working I am is actively involved with research into historical jewelry manufacturing techniques. I am also writing a book about aiglets. I keep current with other jewelers at the Ganoksin Project.
What does a Jewelry Educator do?
Below is the description that I share to let people know what I do as a Jewelry Educator.I felt it might be wise to look at this statement, “deconstruct” it and expand on it so you can see my reasoning for writing what I did. it has a lot to talk about and even more…
All about files
Understanding how to choose the appropriate file sizes, shapes and styles for the work you do will help ensure high-quality, repeatable results for all your jewelry designs.
Hooked fasteners made from wound wire
This style of hooked fastener was very popular during the early Tudor era. (1500 – 1575). As there is no soldering, it is a good first project for new jewelers. The process used here can be easily used to make other items.
You get what you pay for. (Or why appraisals are important)
“Can you tell me what this is worth?”
My standard answer is “It is worth what you paid for it. If you want a professional appraisal I charge $60 an hour, minimum two hours to evaluate and determine the value.”
“But I don’t want an appraisal, I only want you to tell me what it is worth.”
A Basic Tool Set for Jewelers
I have seen that many online educational videos tend to assume that you have some experience with bench work. Many also assume that you have access to tools. Lots of tools. Very expensive tools. This was a pet peeve of mine when I was just starting in the 80’s and it seems that nothing has really changed.
Safety in the Jewelry Shop
Before starting and sitting down at your bench or workspace look around. Just because everything seems ok at first glance, do not become compliant.
Making a sanding stick
This video shows how to make a basic, but often used tool at the jewelers bench. The sanding stick. You should make several of these in different grits of paper.
An early medieval bronze clothing fastener
At first glance it looks remarkably like a skirt hook, but the size of it makes me doubt that. Most likely half of a clasp set for a pouch or a neckline. It could be the hanging end of a small chatelaine. it could possibly be for winningas as well.
Hiding the Mundane
I have been to many events lately where there has been little to no attempt to make the venue look nice. This leads to another problem. When the event is over, everyone just packs up and leaves. Trash is strewn everywhere, chairs and tables are left out, floors dirty, and trash cans left overflowing.