What is Metal Clay?
In the early 1990s Metal Clay was developed in Japan and soon
found its way to the United States in the mid 1990s. Two brands
of Metal Clay exist, PMC or precious metal clay is Mitsubishi
Materials Corporation product and Aida Chemical Industries
produce Art Clay.
Metal clay silver is composed of microscopic particles of silver which
are obtained by recycling metal from items such as computer
equipment and photographic supplies. Then an organic binder and
water are added to form the clay like material. In this form it can be
manipulated just like other clay mediums.
Once the piece is formed it is put through the sintering process to
eliminate the organic binder and water leaving a .999 fine silver work of
art. The sintering process can be achieved through several firing
options, butane torch, hot pot or electric kiln.
Care Suggestions
- Apply makeup, hair spray and perfume before putting on your
jewelry - After each wearing, wipe with a soft cotton cloth to remove
make up and skin oils - Do not wear in a swimming pool or hot tub. Chlorine can
damage various gemstones, metals including gold and remove
patina - Keep away from chemicals, extreme temperatures, and sunlight
- Store separately so each piece doesn't scratch the other
- Store in zip lock plastic bags in a dry cool place away from
prolonged sun exposure (it can damage gemstones) - *the higher the humidity the faster the silver will tarnish, you can
also add no-tarnish strips to the plastic bags to help reduce the
tarnishing process…replace every 3 to 6 months
- cleaned using a soft clean cloth, preferably 100% cotton. A
clean old T-shirt is perfect. - Warm soapy water (mild dish detergent) can also be used but
be careful with certain gemstones. Some can lose their polished
finish. If you are not certain, act on the side of caution and only
wipe with a soft cloth. Pat dry with a clean cloth. - Jewelry polishing cloths: Use lightly to restore luster, however
be careful not to remove accent patina
Blue Dragonfly Studio
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| Blue Dragonfly Studio | PO Box 250 | Penrose, NC 28766 | Copyright © 2009 Blue Dragonfly Studio All Rights Reserved |
Handcrafted Jewelry by Adrienne Casteen
