Ask the Experts about Jewelry Making
Topics: Wire, Argentium Solder, Soldering
Q.
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
A.
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:
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Make certain the joins are clean and tight, that is, no air space between the joins
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This will allow any solder to flow, regardless of the type of solder
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30-gauge Argentium solder sheets can be cut into snippets and used to solder joints
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This solder has been developed to eliminate oxidation at the solder joint
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There is no need to use a firescale retardant since Argentium is alloyed with germanium
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Germanium loves oxygen and forms a protective barrier over the surface of the metal, preventing oxidation and tarnish
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After heating the Argentium piece overall, concentrate the flame on the solder join itself and heat until the solder flows
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Let the piece cool down before quenching in water--shock cracks can occur if cooled too quickly
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Place the soldered item into a pickle solution (an acidic chemical solution) heated in a pickle pot
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The warm pickle will clean the metal of any oxidation (blackening) which may occur during the soldering
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Rinse in clean water
Note: Observe safety precautions with any chemicals and soldering techniques.
- Sandra Lupo, Jewelry Designer and Instructor
Materials