Mixed Deck — All CBJ Topics Flashcards

Which gold alloy exhibits a greenish hue due to a high silver content?

Answer: Green gold (electrum)

Green gold, historically called electrum, is alloyed with a high percentage of silver, which imparts a greenish tint.

What does a 'satin finish' look like on jewelry?

Answer: A fine-grained, non-reflective brushed surface

A satin finish is achieved by brushing or abrading the metal to produce a soft, uniform, non-reflective sheen.

What is a key responsibility of a Master Bench Jeweler?

Answer: Overseeing and mentoring junior jewelers

A Master Bench Jeweler typically possesses extensive experience and a high level of skill, making them invaluable in a leadership role. A key responsibility is to oversee the work of less experienced jewelers, providing guidance, training, and mentorship. They ensure quality craftsmanship, troubleshoot complex repairs, and help develop the next generation of skilled bench jewelers.

What is the best approach when encountering a novel situation in practice?

Answer: Apply fundamental principles, consult resources, and seek guidance when needed

Novel situations require applying foundational knowledge, consulting available resources, and seeking expert guidance when needed.

What is work hardening in metalworking?

Answer: Hardening through repeated mechanical deformation

Work hardening occurs when repeated bending or hammering disrupts the metal's crystal structure, making it harder and less ductile.

A pave-set stone is sitting too high above its seat. The most appropriate corrective action is to:

Answer: Deepen the seat with a bearing cutter until the stone sits at the correct height

A bearing cutter removes metal precisely to deepen the seat so the stone sits at the proper height for secure setting.

What makes Argentium silver different from standard sterling silver?

Answer: Addition of germanium for tarnish resistance

Argentium silver contains germanium, which significantly improves tarnish resistance compared to traditional sterling silver.

What is the primary purpose of a flex shaft machine in a jewelry bench setting?

Answer: Driving rotary tools for grinding, drilling, and polishing

A flex shaft machine powers rotary handpieces used for grinding, drilling, engraving, and polishing tasks at the bench.

What is the primary purpose of polishing in jewelry making?

Answer: To enhance the luster and smoothness of the metal

Polishing is a crucial finishing step in jewelry making and repair. It involves using abrasive compounds and buffing wheels to remove microscopic scratches and imperfections from the metal surface. This process results in a highly reflective, smooth finish that brings out the inherent beauty and shine of the metal.

Which setting type surrounds the entire girdle of a gemstone with a metal collar?

Answer: Bezel setting

A bezel setting features a metal wall or collar that encircles and secures the entire girdle of the gemstone.

What skill is essential for repairing a prong that has been damaged or worn?

Answer: Prong Retipping

Prong retipping is a specialized skill involving the addition of new metal to worn or damaged prongs that hold a gemstone. This process restores the integrity and security of the setting, preventing the stone from becoming loose or falling out. It requires precision and expertise to ensure the stone remains safely in place without damaging it.

Which precious metal used in jewelry has the highest melting point?

Answer: Platinum

Platinum melts at approximately 1,768°C, the highest melting point among common jewelry metals.

After casting a wax model in sterling silver, the casting shows large porosity pockets. The most likely cause is:

Answer: Flask temperature too high at time of injection causing gas entrapment

Overheating the flask causes gas to become trapped in the solidifying metal, creating porosity voids.

How should a professional handle a situation where institutional policy conflicts with ethical standards?

Answer: Advocate for policy change while following ethical guidelines

Professionals should advocate for policy changes while maintaining ethical standards, seeking resolution through proper channels.

When sizing a white gold ring up two sizes, the jeweler notices the solder joint turned yellow after soldering. This most likely means:

Answer: Gold solder with too low a karat or wrong color was used

Yellow discoloration at a white gold solder joint indicates a mismatched solder — yellow gold solder used instead of white gold solder.

When using a burnisher to tighten a bezel around a soft cabochon like turquoise, the jeweler should:

Answer: Work in small overlapping strokes around the entire bezel perimeter evenly

Even, incremental pressure around the full perimeter prevents the stone from shifting and ensures uniform contact.

What percentage of silver does sterling silver contain?

Answer: 92.5%

Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with 7.5% other metals, typically copper, indicated by the .925 hallmark.

How long must professional records typically be maintained?

Answer: According to state and federal regulations, often 7-10 years or longer

Record retention is governed by state and federal laws, with most requiring 7-10 years, and longer for minors.

What role does data collection play in quality improvement?

Answer: It provides objective evidence for identifying trends and measuring progress

Data-driven decision making provides objective evidence, helping identify patterns and measure the impact of improvement efforts.

When using a rolling mill to reduce metal sheet thickness, the correct procedure for each pass is to:

Answer: Reduce roller gap by a small, consistent increment per pass and anneal as needed

Gradual reductions in small increments prevent stress cracking and extend the life of both the metal and the rolling mill.