Machining & engraving

Jack Gohn describes his experiences hand engraving Argentium 930 Silver:  

In the past, hand engraving sterling silver has always created problems with finishing.  You had to try to hold the brightness of the engraving by either bright metal plating, applying antique finishes, or lacquering the surface.  The purpose of these applications would be to prevent the surface from tarnishing, however, they would diminish the beauty of the cuts that makes hand engraving so beautiful.

The creation of Argentium Sterling has brought, to the hand engraver, the advantage of changing the hardness and softness of the metal in the studio, together with the advantage of leaving the metal in its natural state after engraving.  

Engravers are always looking for new ways to transfer their designs from paper to metal.  Most transfer methods work on Argentium Sterling, except in the use of titanium white gouache (used for layout foundation).  Several engravers have reported that this white watercolour will cause superficial damage to the surface, if left on for too long (regular sterling does not seem to have this problem).  As with all new metals, we should test and try various methods, to see what works best for the engraver and the metal they are working with.

Argentium Sterling holds a very bright and sharp cut.  I have seen pieces of my engraved Argentium Sterling after a year of day by day wear - the engraving and the metal had remained sharp and bright.   The only care that had been given to these pieces was wearing them and washing occasionally with soap and water. 

Hand engraving and forming Argentium Sterling is a very enjoyable experience.  This is a beautiful metal to showcase your engraving.