Sterling silver casting problems are grouped into two categories. First are those problems that occur when poor technique is used in operations prior to melting. A brief review is given showing the proper technique. The second group of problems relate to silver’s ability to absorb tremendous amounts of oxygen in the molten state. This ability requires the caster to protect the molten sterling against oxygen pickup, several methods are suggested. When oxygen is absorbed, gas porosity and copper oxide formation usually ruin the casting.

Author: Richard Carrano