Etching silver with Ferric Nitrate

Jewelry Discussion
1

I have had great success etching copper with Ferric Chloride, to
which I added citric acid (Edinburgh Etch). Got a nice fast etch.

I am now planning to do some etching on silver using Ferric Nitrate.

Will adding citric acid to the Ferric Nitrate increase its bite and
speed up the process?

Alma

2

I am having trouble finding Ferric Chloride in the wilds of West
Texas since Radio Shack quit stocking it. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Bobbie

3 
Will adding citric acid to the Ferric Nitrate increase its bite
and speed up the process?

Try it, and let us know!

Noel

4

Bobbie, You might be able to get Ferric Chloride from your local
chemical supply houses. Also do a google search. Several places offer
it in liquid or dry form.

Alma

5

Radio Shack still carries the Ferric Chloride, just not under that
name. But if you want to order directly, you need etching solution.
I have ordered my Ferric Chloride from Minuteman Electronics (
http://tinyurl.com/22etmp ) and have been happy with their service
and product quality. I’m sure there are other sources out there as
well.

Sandi Graves, Beadin’ Up A Storm
Stormcloud Trading Co (Beadstorm)
http://www.beadstorm.com

6

Hi Sandi,

I called several area Radio Shacks and was told that they no longer
carry Ferric Chloride. Evidently they weren’t told of the name change.
Do you know what it’s called now?

Thanks,
Bobbie

7 
I called several area Radio Shacks and was told that they no
longer carry Ferric Chloride.

You can order it by the gallon from Graphic Chemical and Ink

http://www.graphicchemical.com

It is not a haz. shipping item.

It costs, same or a little less than buying multiple little jars
from Radio Shack, if you could. Usual disclaimer.

Elaine
http://www.CreativeTextureTools.com ™
Hard to Find Tools for Metal Clay

8

Unfortunately, since I only purchased my Ferric Chloride from Radio
Shack the first time I needed the product and never since, I don’t
know what they are calling it now.

Sandi Graves, Beadin’ Up A Storm
Stormcloud Trading Co (Beadstorm)
http://www.beadstorm.com