Greetings to the fine folks of Orchid.
A dilemma. I am about to mix up another batch of 22 karat gold and
happened to read this contribution from Ronda Coryell on alloying 22
karat gold.
Specifically what is stated below.
Forging Ingots
Ingots are somewhat like a sponge and should be compressed before
rolling ordrawing down. Stress lines and blisters will form on your
sheet if the ingot is not forged down properly. Forge the ingot down
to one half the originaldiameter in order to break down the
crystalline structure of the metal before reducing through the
rolling mill.
I studied for many years at the school founded by Robert Kulicke and
was only taught to press the gold down with a piece of charcoal and
then continue to roll to sheet or form a rod for wire.
Should I hammer the 22 karat disk and rod before rolling? The hammer
used in the article looks very specific and intimidating. Any
thoughts or leads on the process and the hammer used would be
greatly appreciated.
Wishing All a memorable Holiday Season.
Kind regards,
Lois