Work Processes

I design and hand-sculpt all my Fine Silver components using Precious Metal Clay (PMC).  Finished work often includes this silver combined with natural and laboratory made semi-precious or precious gems, glass, found objects, sterling silver, and gold.  Each piece is unique-a one-of-a-kind jewelry creation.  PMC was developed in the mid 1990's by Mitsubishi Materials Corporation of Japan.  It is a clay-like material comprised of micron-sized particles of silver blended with an organic binder and water. The clay can be molded, sculpted, stamped, or carved.  An important characteristic of this material is that marvelous textures and designs can be achieved by pressing virtually any object into the wet clay.  It is then kiln fired so that the binder burns away leaving pure silver (.999 Fine Silver). Shrinkage during the firing process enhances the texture even further.  Certain natural and laboratory made stones can be fired directly into the clay for a very unique effect. As well, leaves, flowers, starfish, insects, twigs, etc. fired into the clay burn away to leave their shape and texture in the finished piece. 

After shaping, the unfired clay pieces are dried, then sanded or carved.  After firing, they are scrubbed, burnished and tumbled to achieve the wonderful pure silver shine.  Natural stones are hand set, findings are soldered in place, and chains or beaded strands often complete the project.  I usually apply a chemical patina in various colors to the Fine Silver pieces to enhance the texture.  This color is more-or-less permanent and the pieces can be washed with soap and water. However, using a tarnish remover will take off the color. Since pure silver does not appreciably tarnish in normal environmental conditions, this should not be an issue.