materials |
If someone says 'can't,' that shows you what to do
This jewellery is made using a technique which, according to all the accepted wisdom and literature, is impossible: that of soldering precious metals to corroded mild steel. With a bit of care and effort, the materials can be made to join, allowing a rich contrast of colours and textures, creating pieces which are both modern and nostalgic, complete with an 'instant history'.
In using techniques from fine jewellery - stonesettings, articulation, hand-made chains, sophisticated catches - useless material is given value and a new use.
The first piece I made used a selection of old keys and a drill bit. The piece I am currently working on uses a corroded plate from a gas boiler, keys and rusty wood files.
As you can see, cutlery, brazing rods, tools, keys, keyrings and really anything made of mild steel has potential. The only essential is that is should have rusted or corroded in some way in order to give it a texture.
The silvery grey plaque of metal in the bottom right of the picture is a piece of gas boiler which has been cleaned up electrolytically.
Other found objects can be seen here.
A guide on how to join steel to precious metals can be seen here.
Electrolytic etching of steel, brass, copper and silver can be seen here.