Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions attempts to answer
questions that are regularly asked. Any questions that you feel are
of general interest would be welcome.
| Q. |
Why Do I experience cracking in
traditional 18K Pink/Red Gold? |
| A. |
The metallurgy using 75 % Gold & 20 % or
greater Copper produce a structure with few grain boundaries
or fusion points, rendering it very brittle. Recommendations
are to quick quench the castings, however this rarely
eliminates the problem. A better alternative is to use a
lower copper alloy. Some color is lost but the 18K is still
reddish. This problem does not occur in lower karats. |
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| Q. |
Is there any modern compilation of
defects common to the jewelry manufacturer? |
| A. |
Yes, The World Gold Council & The Santa Fe
Symposium have available what's called "Handbook On Casting
Defects" In Gold Jewelry Manufacture. It is available from
the Santa Fe Symposium. 505-839-3249 |
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| Q. |
Why does Rhodium plating wear off? |
| A. |
Because not enough is applied. A proper
Rhodium plating is 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 minutes. Consult your
plating supplier for more specific instructions regarding
your application. |
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