I am very new to the art of making jewellery and work almost
exclusively with semi-precious gemstone beads and 9ct purchased
findings (but it’s surprising how nice the pieces are that are made
from such simple components). I want to branch out a bit, and wonder
if anyone can recommend a good book that will teach me about tools
and techniques. I have two projects I want to do a) I have a cast 9ct
ring with a matt finish which needs to be polished and b) I can’t
find a supplier in the UK of small 9ct tube beads of the type used to
make ‘liquid gold’ so I intend to make my own from 9ct tube. Problems
is, in both cases I don’t know what tools and/or materials I will
need, hence my search for a good reference book. I don’t do soldering
(yet!) nor do I have a tumbler (it’s not worth buying one at the
moment), so I have to keep things simple. Love this list - I’ve
learned so much just from reading the posts. Regards Pat Waddington
Look at The Complete Metalsmith by Tim McCreight. 190 pages of well
illustrated techniques. $19.95 in the U.S Bill
The first book I ever purchased regarding jewelry was “The complete
metalsmith”(Tim McCreight ). It will provide a solid understanding
of the many aspects, a good place to start.
Jon, Montreal
b) I can't find a supplier in the UK of small 9ct tube beads of the type used to make 'liquid gold' so I intend to make my own from 9ct tube.
Dear Pat, Have you tried the Cookson catalogue (I think it’s
cooksongold.com)? Alternatively, there is a bullion dealer in central
London called J. Blundell & Sons (jblundell.co.uk). I believe that
both these companies have catalogues on the internet, so you can see
what’s available. Check in the chain section. Hope this helps, ?
-Michael.