Jewelry Design Jewelry Finishing and Surface Treatments

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of the pickling process in jewelry making?

Accepted Answer

To remove oxides and flux residue from metal after soldering

Answer

Pickling uses an acidic solution (such as sodium bisulfate or sulfuric acid) to dissolve oxidation and flux residue left on metal after soldering or heating.

Question 2

Which finishing technique uses a rotating wheel loaded with abrasive compound to bring jewelry to a high shine?

Accepted Answer

Buffing

Answer

Buffing uses rotating wheels impregnated with abrasive compounds such as tripoli or rouge to polish metal to a bright, high shine.

Question 3

What effect does liver of sulfur (potassium polysulfide) create on silver jewelry?

Accepted Answer

A dark brown or black patina

Answer

Liver of sulfur reacts with silver to create a dark brown to black patina that adds depth and an antique character to the piece.

Question 4

Reticulation is a surface treatment technique that produces what kind of effect on metal?

Accepted Answer

An organic, wrinkled texture on the surface

Answer

Reticulation involves heating a specially prepared silver alloy to near its melting point, causing the surface layer to flow and wrinkle into a distinctive organic texture.

Question 5

Which metal is most commonly electroplated onto silver jewelry to prevent tarnishing and improve its white, bright appearance?

Accepted Answer

Rhodium

Answer

Rhodium, a platinum-group metal, is widely plated onto silver jewelry because it is highly resistant to tarnish, corrosion, and scratching.

Jewelry Design Practice Test

Jewelry Design Practice Test

Jewelry Design Jewelry Finishing and Surface Treatments