Hi, I have a question. I have carved out a heart and want to suspend a ruby heart inside the carving. I’d show the ruby heart but it went flying while I was polishing it so I have to make new one. Anyway, I’d like it appear to float inside. I am worried resin would yellow, and water doesn’t seem like it would work out well long term. Mineral oil maybe? Has anyone done this before? Ideas?
The specialist epoxy, HXTAL, was formulated specifically for conservation bonding of glass. It has nearly the same refractive index as glass, so the seam disapperas, and does not yellow over time.
It takes more care to use than epoxies you get at the hardware store, but it is exactly what you need for this application.
It can be purchased from suppliers who specialize in conservation materials. Here is a link to the instruction sheet PDF.
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Thanks, someone on Instagram recommend the same. I was wanting it to literally float - move when the stone moved inside the carving. I think this will dry hard, no?
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Yes, this will be solid as it is an epoxy. To get the stone to float around I think your best bet is medical grade mineral oil.
The problem then becomes what to use to glue the opening closed. Mineral oil will certainly interfere with most adhesives. What will you use to back the piece?
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Yeah, I will have to clean the edges well to make sure it sticks. I typically carve a piece of very thin gold or silver to back the opening of the carving.