Ask the Experts Soldering Q&A

I'm trying to solder Argentium Silver wire. Everything I have read says that I don't need flux, but when I soldered the wire it went black—like sterling—and didn't melt. Can you suggest a good flux and give some direction on how to solder?

- Nina

Argentium® sterling silver has a lower melting point (about 60 degrees lower than traditional sterling silver), so the solder should flow a little sooner depending on the grade of solder and technique. Use a liquid or paste flux to help any solder flow.

When soldering:

• Make certain the joins are clean and tight—that is, no air space between the joins

              -This will allow any solder to flow, regardless of the type of solder

• 30-gauge Argentium solder sheets can be cut into snippets and used to solder joints

               -This solder has been developed to eliminate oxidation at the solder joint

• There is no need to use a firescale retardant since Argentium is alloyed with germanium

              -Germanium loves oxygen and forms a protective barrier over the surface of the metal, preventing oxidation and tarnish

• After heating the Argentium piece overall, concentrate the flame on the solder join itself and heat until the solder flows
• Let the piece cool down before quenching in water—shock cracks can occur if cooled too quickly
• Place the soldered item into a pickle solution (an acidic chemical solution) heated in a pickle pot

             -The warm pickle will clean the metal of any oxidation (blackening) which may occur during the soldering

• Rinse in clean water

Note: Observe safety precautions with any chemicals and soldering techniques.

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