Gold powder or gold dust, as it is often referred to, is a basic form of raw gold. Since gold powder is, essentially, gold metal, you can make gold jewelry from it. However, since you do need some specialized equipment to make jewelry out of gold powder, you may want to work with a local art school or jewelry(Where to Buy , click here) maker to try the process out before you make the investment in your own equipment. If you enjoy the process, then you can move on to make this unique form of gold jewelry.
Instructions
1. Preheat your jewelry kiln. Warm up your jewelry kiln to about 1,700 degrees, which is a bit above the melting point of 18K gold. 24K gold melts at 1,945 degrees, so adjust your kiln accordingly.
2. Measure out the gold powder. If you have a small mold, such as one for a simple ring, then you may only need a few tsp. of gold powder. However, if you are using a larger mold, then you may need more. Approximate the amount using a tsp. as a measure, and do not worry if you get too much since you can re-melt and re-use the excess for something else later.
3. Melt the gold powder until it is molten. You will place the gold powder in the melting pot and place the entire melting pot in the hot kiln. Use the heat-proof gloves and the tongs to make sure that you do not get burned. The gold is molten when it is entirely liquid.
4. Remove the melting pot. When the gold has melted, remove the melting pot with your tongs. Make sure you are wearing your gloves when doing this.
5. Pour the molten gold into the mold. You will use the tongs to do this. The melting pot will have a pour spout that will direct the flow of the gold. You can pour it directly into the mold.
6. Let the gold harden. You may need to leave it for several hours to allow it to cool, though some jewelers use water baths or other techniques to cool the metal faster. It will be up to you and the technology at your disposal. The important thing is to let the jewelry cool to the point that you can touch it easily.
7. Crack the mold. You probably will be able to simply pop your jewelry out of the mold, though some types will require cracking or breaking. Your gold jewelry from ukbead stores will then be revealed. You can sand it to smoothness, polish it, size it or engrave it at this point.