Wire jewelry and tutorials: Simple Techniques and Designs, Stylish, Unique and be Inspired
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Oxidised Vs Non-Oxidised
Two days ago I showed you how I oxidized my sterling silver ring but left it as it is as I do not know what to use to polish the oxidized ring.
Poranna is kind enough to find out from her friends and suggested that I use cloth that we use to clean our eye glasses. So, here is the result. The oxidized ring is shown together with one which is not.
Which one do you prefer? Oxidized or non-oxidized?
Oh, I definitely prefer the oxidized. Somehow it has more depth of character. Which do you like better?
ReplyDeleteyeah, me too, it looks noble; I'm happy it helped at least a bit :o)
ReplyDeleteActually, I like them both. Some people still like shiny. It's nice to have the choice.
ReplyDeleteI like both actually. Some days I prefer to be a bit sparkly and some days a bit ehmmm...not too sparkly.
ReplyDeleteDo you think it would work with brass? hmm...
ReplyDeleteI have never work with brass before so I wouldn't know. I have some copper but have not try it out yet.
ReplyDeleteI prefer the brighter ring. I'd snap it up in a minute, but wouldn't even consider the darker one.
ReplyDeleteHi Ruth, thanks. Now I know your taste :)
ReplyDeleteThis is my first time leaving a comment for you Mei, but I have been reading your blog all afternoon and your talent and creations are so amazing! Giving inspiration doesn't even begin to cover what you actually achieve with your work! If you ever get to oxidize copper or brass I think you will be very excited. An easy way of doing it is with 1tbsp regular white vinegar to 1tsp salt. My mind is not working with me for the word I want, but mix the salt until dissolved as much as it will and soak for at least a half an hour. Remove and set on a paper towel, but make sure you do not touch it with bare fingers because the oils from your skin will not allow the "patina" to form where you have touched. I forgot to note that you will want to "sand" for lack of a better term at the moment (it's been a long day) with fine steel wool, obviously going with the grain of the metal. If when your piece is sitting after several he's and it hasn't reached the level of patina you would like you can soak another papertowel in the solution and gently lay it over the piece until desired color is reached, it will be beautiful blues and greens for copper. Once done you let dry for several days, this way of doing it causes the patina to be quite crumbly, it you want less color in some areas you can sand softly and to seal you can use lawyer or any type of soft wax. Please be advised that most copper you buy from a vendor is sealed and this type of patina cannot be done on such wire. The metal must be raw and untreated. I hope you can bring a whole new dimension to your already amazing portfolio. I will be back often and may have to commission you on a braided facing cobra piece of my own, either that or I may try to share my attempt at it with you! Respectfully, Christy
ReplyDeleteHi Christy, thank you for sharing the details on the easy way to oxidize copper & brass. Vinegar and salt is always available in our kitchen. I am very excited about this method and planning to try it out soon.
ReplyDeleteI am looking forward to your facing the cobra piece. Try it out and let me know how it goes :)
Happy New Year 2013. All the best wishes for you and yours this coming new year.