Ganoskin/Orchid Raffle -WOW!!!

My fave and probably the most extensive jewelry manufacturing methods and techniques mailing list is: The Ganoksin Project. Whenever I have a question, all I have to do is search on the archives. If I can’t find it, I post it and there is always someone who has the answer..

They are having an AMAZ ING raffle during the Tucson Gem Show. AnyoneÂ can buy a ticket, you don’t need to be present to win! TheÂ total for prizes value is $23,187.90Â and there will beÂ SEVEN winners! Tickets are only $39, help support Orchid!Â Look at this list of raffle prizes:

Grand Prize: Total Value of $12, 373.90

Gold banner advertising account on Ganoksin – $1,599
Hill Management Consulting – Gift Certificate for Business Consultation – $1,080
Durston – Durston Rolling Mill DRM C130 Manual Mill â€“ $1,195
Reactive Metals – Gift Certificate for Reactive Metals Product – $1,000
Discount Digital Art – Gift Certificate for image scanning – $1,000
Jewelry Training Center – Workshop in including lodging – $1,000
McKinnon Global – Custom Web Programming and Business Plan Finances – $1,000
Foredom – Foredom TX Flexshaft and Book – $428.90
Myron Toback – Ambassador Collection Dapping Set – $415
Gemz Diamond Setting – Voucher including gravers and materials – $414
Otto Frei – A collection of Lindstrom pliers and cutters – $400
Swanstrom Tools USA – 3 sets of high quality pliers – $393
Gesswein – Gift Certificate from their Tool Catalog – $300
Allcraft – A selection of hammers – $300
MJSA – Selection of books and a subscription to MJSA Journal – $300
Racecar Jewelry – Model Making and Casting Workshop – $300
Bob Rush – Gift certificate for a variety of hand cut cabochons – $300
RHB Enterprises – Gift certificate for stones – $300
JewelerProfit – Geller’s Blue Book to Jewelry Repair Cost – $299
Fretz Design, LLC â€“ Exclusive Forming Hammers – $250
The Contenti Company – Gift Certificates – $100

2nd Prize: Pat Pruitt – Bracelet: Stainless Steel, Industrial diamonds – $2,500

3rd Prize: Chris Ploof Studio – A custom Stainless Steel Damascus and 18K Gold – $2,500

4th Prize: Don Friedlich – Hand fabricated brooch: Glass and 18K Gold – $1,800

5th Prize: Beth Rosengard – Brooch: Tourmalines, 14k & 22k Gold – $1,500

6th Prize:

Asphalt Apache Design – Website design and hosting for one year – $1,400
The Contenti Company – Gift Certificates – $100

7th Prize:

Amy Burkholder – Brooch and Eearrings: 22k keum-boo diamonds – $500
Gemz Diamond Setting – Voucher including gravers and materials – $414
The Contenti Company – Gift Certificates – $100

WOW!!!!! So go Buy a ticket, or increase your chances and buy a few! The winners will be drawn on the night of the The 12th Annual Tucson Orchid Dinner, Friday, Feb. 8, 2008Â Â Â Â Â

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20 Ways To Use Scrabble Tiles In Jewelry Making

In the dimly lit corner of my small jewelry studio, the silver soldering torch hisses to life. The familiar scent of metal and flux fills the air. As a jewelry maker, I’ve always found a certain magic in the process of soldering. It’s the moment when separate pieces of metal, like puzzle pieces, come together to create a beautiful whole. Over the years, I’ve gathered my fair share of tips and tricks that have made this art form more of a delight than a chore. Here, I’ll share some of those secrets to help you master the art of soldering in your jewelry making journey.

1. Set the Stage for Success
Before diving into soldering, ensure that your workspace is well-organized and clutter-free. You need a clear and clean surface to focus on your work. Make sure you have all your tools and materials within easy reach. An organized workspace not only boosts efficiency but also minimizes the chances of accidents.

2. Fire Up the Torch with Confidence
The torch is often the heart of soldering, and it can be intimidating for beginners. When I was starting, I remember feeling nervous about lighting the torch. But here’s a tip: practice lighting and adjusting the flame without your jewelry piece. Get comfortable with the torch, and you’ll gain more control.

3. Understand the Three S’s: Surface, Solder, and Sweat
Surface preparation is key. Clean the metal surfaces you plan to solder meticulously. Use a brush or abrasive paper to remove any oxides or contaminants. Then, apply flux. It’s like a magical potion that prevents oxidation and helps the solder flow.

The solder itself comes in various forms: sheets, wire, and paste. Choose the type that suits your project best. For small, delicate joints, I prefer solder wire, as it’s easier to position accurately.

As for the ‘sweat,’ it’s the term for the moment when the metal reaches the right temperature, and the solder flows like liquid silver. It’s crucial to wait for this moment, rather than forcing the solder to melt. This requires patience and practice.

4. Master the Art of Heat Control
Controlling the heat is a skill that comes with time. It’s essential to understand that different parts of your jewelry piece may require varying levels of heat. Larger pieces need more heat, while smaller or delicate areas need a gentle touch. Don’t rush this process; take your time to heat evenly.

5. Use Third-Hand Tools and Binding Wire
These trusty sidekicks are indispensable for securing your jewelry pieces during soldering. The third-hand tool can hold your workpiece in place, leaving your hands free to manipulate the torch and solder. Binding wire is your invisible assistant, helping to align and support delicate elements during soldering.

6. Post-Soldering Care
Once your soldering is complete, it’s crucial to quench your jewelry piece in a pickling solution. This removes any remaining flux and oxides, leaving you with a clean, shiny piece. After pickling, give your creation a good scrub with a brass brush for that extra shine.

7. Practice Makes Perfect
Like any art, soldering takes time to master. It’s not uncommon to experience frustration in the beginning, but remember that practice is your best friend. Take on small projects, perfect your technique, and gradually work your way up to more complex designs.

Soldering is more than just a technical skill; it’s an art form that bridges the gap between separate elements and transforms them into a unified whole. My journey as a jewelry maker has been a series of sparks, flames, and, yes, occasional mishaps, but each experience has added to my skill and passion.

Solder Like a Pro with these great tips

Bezel Set Ring Tutorial

Torch Talk

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