CBJ Skills and Expertise 4

Question 1

A jeweler notices porosity in a cast piece that has been returned for polishing. What manufacturing stage most likely caused this defect?

Accepted Answer

Insufficient burnout time in the kiln causing gas entrapment during casting

Answer

Over-polishing with too coarse a wheel

Answer

Using the wrong solder grade during assembly

Answer

Improper rhodium plating thickness

Question 2

Which type of saw blade is most appropriate for piercing an intricate filigree pattern in thin sheet metal?

Accepted Answer

A fine blade (size 4/0 or 6/0) for tight curves and detail

Answer

A coarse blade (size 4) for fast material removal

Answer

A bandsaw blade for straight long cuts

Answer

A flex shaft cutting disc for open sections

Question 3

When soldering a finding (such as a bail) onto a completed piece, which solder grade should be used?

Accepted Answer

A lower-temperature solder than that used in prior joins to protect existing seams

Answer

The highest temperature solder available for maximum strength

Answer

The same grade as all prior solder joins for consistency

Answer

No solder—findings should be laser-welded only

Question 4

What is the function of a ring mandrel in bench jewelry work?

Accepted Answer

Measuring and shaping rings to a specific size

Answer

Holding stones during setting

Answer

Grinding metal flat on one side

Answer

Applying heat evenly around a ring shank

Question 5

In bead setting (grain setting), what tool is used to raise the small bead of metal that secures the stone?

Accepted Answer

A beading tool (cup bur)

Answer

A flat graver

Answer

A prong pusher

Answer

A burnisher

Question 6

A customer's white gold ring has turned slightly yellow over time. What is the most likely cause and remedy?

Accepted Answer

The rhodium plating has worn off; re-plate with rhodium

Answer

The gold content has decreased; no remedy exists

Answer

The ring was exposed to chlorine, which tints gold yellow

Answer

Yellow gold underneath has oxidized through the surface

Question 7

Which safety practice is essential when using a pickle solution (acid flux remover) at the jewelry bench?

Accepted Answer

Use copper or plastic tongs and never introduce steel to the pickle

Answer

Place hot metal directly into the pickle using steel tweezers

Answer

Neutralize metal in vinegar before placing it in pickle

Answer

Heat the pickle to boiling before each use for faster action