Melting down silver

When I melt down left over silver for re use do I need to add
flux/borax when I melt it down? It has left a big gungy mess in my
crucible. Also does the silver have to be pickled white first? Is
the quality affected if it is work blackened? Thanks for your help,
Laura.

laura cowan
judaica designer and silversmith

Melt it down to liquid and flux it… Then pour from about four
feet to a foot deep pan of water… it will shot and clean the
metal. Ringman