Utilizing Silver Solder in Jewelry Making
Soldering silver can get technical, and there are many ways to do it. However, for beginners working at home or learning silversmithing, it’s important to understand which types of solder to use.
If you plan to sell your jewelry, you must use hallmark-quality silver solder. Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver, so your solder must contain at least 67% silver to keep the overall quality.
If you’re just starting out, buy an assortment pack of silver solder. There are four solder grades, each with a different melting point and use.
- Extra Easy solder contains 50% silver and melts at 681°C. It’s great for delicate pieces and small repairs.
- Easy solder contains 60% silver and melts at 711°C. Use it for repairs and the final join in a project.
- Medium solder contains 70% silver and melts at 747°C. It’s ideal for the second join in pieces with two joints.
- Hard solder contains 76% silver and melts at 773°C. It works best for single joins and matches silver color closely.
When working on a piece with several joins, use different solder grades. If you use only one type, you risk melting earlier joins as you add new ones.
Start with hard solder for the first join. Then use medium, easy, and finally extra easy. This step-down method protects earlier joints from re-melting.
The Soldering Process
Before beginning the soldering process, you need to have an appropriate selection of tools at hand, as well as your solder itself.
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Solder doesn’t actually flow naturally, which is why flux is required. It can be brought as a liquid or powder (which is then mixed with liquid to form a paste). Liquid flux is applied directly to the pieces you are joining and promotes fusion between the metal.
Muggy Weld’s SSQ-6 Silver Solder Paste offers the functions of flux while being the only silver solder paste that’s strong enough to clean oxidized stainless steel, with a syringe for precise application.
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If you’re working with liquid flux, have a small brush (such as a paintbrush) on hand to apply it.
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For holding the components of your work in place, tweezers are essential – particularly for small pieces of jewelry such as earrings. Muggy Weld’s Heat Absorption Paste secures delicate pieces in place for soldering while also protecting heat-sensitive areas around the welding site from warping and damage.
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To move the solder around when you’re using it, a solder pick is a necessity. To prevent solder from sticking to the pick, go for one with a non-stick titanium tip.
Silversmithing Tips
It can be difficult to master the art of silversmithing, but with a little know-how (and plenty of practice), you’ll be able to solder quality silver jewelry in no time.
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When working wire, sheet, or chip solder (where you cut the amount you need), always aim to use the smallest amount possible. Most joints require no more than 2mm of solder.
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Always ensure the metal is clean to achieve the best outcome. Sanding it down or soaking it in a pickle (an acidic solution used for cleaning metal components) should always be done before soldering.
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Safety is paramount! To avoid breathing in fumes, a respirator with filers is essential. Always tie your hair up and wear an apron – cotton fabric (while not fire-resistant) is less likely to ignite than synthetic fabrics.
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Always ensure the room you’re working in is well-ventilated by either opening windows or getting a ventilation fan to maintain air quality.