Topics: Metals, Finish
Q.
What does oxidated and anodized mean? Thank you,
A.
Oxidated is really another way of saying oxidized. Oxidized means metals are treated with a chemical that simulated the natural occurrence of oxides on metal. Oxidizers create a darkened or antiqued finish. Both Liver of Sulfur™ and Patina Gel are oxidizers.
Anodized refers to surface color that is applied to metal with an electric current. This process coats the metal and offers a wonderful palette of surface color. Care must be taken with anodized metals, such as aluminum, titanium and niobium, so the color is preserved; use covered tools so you do not mar the surface color.
- Sandra Lupo, Metalsmith, Jewelry Artist and Instructor
Materials
- Liver of Sulfur
- Cool Tools Patina Gel
- Nylon jaw pliers
- Anodized wire, findings and chain
- Tool Magic®
- View anodized design inspirations in the Gallery of Designs
- View oxidized design inspirations in the Gallery of Designs
- ''Using Patina Gel'' illustrated instructions
- ''Using Liver of Sulfur™'' illustrated instructions
- ''Anodized Metals'' Ask the Experts question and answer
- ''Oxidized Metals'' Ask the Experts question and answer
- ''Protecting Tools with Tool Magic®'' illustrated instructions