“Pine Bark” Grain Billet Data

Product code: AS/Cu/15% 20 +1. Nominal Composition: 42.2% Argentium sterling (AS), 26.2% , and 26.6% shibuichi silver (85% Cu/15% Ag, by weight). The billet is made with alternating layers of Argentium (A) , copper (B) and 15% shibuichi (C), stacked in a repeating ‘CABA’ arrangement with copper on the top and a heavy layer of Argentium at the bottom. The bil- let has about 18" total thickness; copper and shibuichi layers are twice as thick as the Argentium layers. Description: The un-patterned plate is made of nine layers of Argentiuim Silver (AS), fi ve copper and fi ve shibuichi layers with a heavy backing plate of AS. The stock size for the plate is 3" (76.2mm) wide with a maximum available thickness of .400" (10mm). At this time, the fl at grain plate is not available for sale, but is used to make patterned sheet. The patterned sheet will have a slightly higher silver content due the removal of the copper alloy layers on top of the heavy backing plate during pattern development.

Note: The term “Pine Bark billets” refers to argentium/copper/shibuichi combinations of metals due the subdued but rich color palate that presents when they are patinated.

Like other types of mokume gane made with Argentium Silver, this product was developed to take advantage of the special properties of Argentium. AS does not form fi re-scale and work-hardens much more slowly than traditional sterling, making it ideal for use in highly wrought items subject to multiple annealing cycles. The heavy backing plate makes possible its use for items that will come into contact with skin, food and drink.

Pattern: Plate is a section used to make other patterns or to be used as forging stock. The most common method used to introduce pattern is by incision or selective stock removal and subsequent plastic deformation. The pattern should be developed only from the layered side indicated by the top copper layer.

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800.545.6566 riogrande.com #RioJeweler Uses: Jewelry, flatware and other decorative metalwork. We do not recommend that the patterned surface be left in continuous contact with skin, food or drink. The Argentium surface may be in continuous contact with the above. Melting Point: Starts to melt at about 750°C (1,382°F). Nominal Density: 5.08 tr. oz./cu. in. or 9.65 gr/cc. Please note that the density and composition figures are for the billet with undeveloped pattern. The compositions will change due to metal loss from pattern development. These figures are for estimation purposes only. Quality Mark: No existing category in the current quality marking system. Working the Material: Do not hot work this material. Doing so will void the warranty.

This mokume is easily formed by raising, cold forming, die striking and sawing. Anneal after a 40% to 50% reduction has been achieved. Use a solder that flows at a temperature lower than the melting point. Spe- cial AS solder is available through Rio Grande, Albuquerque. Regular easy and medium silver solder may be used, but will tarnish more quickly than the parent metal. Pressure or stress on this material while it is hot is not recommended as the AS is somewhat hot brittle.

When developing a pattern, be sure to allow for stock loss. A good rule is that one will need to start with at least double the thickness of the final sheet or item. Annealing: The Argentium is highly reflective at the annealing temperature, and reading the color can be difficult. The use of a flux indicator is recommended. To do this, brush a little flux on the surface and heat evenly until the flux melts. Do not quench. If a fairly rapid cooling is desired, rest the metal (at a black heat) on a steel plate. The recommended annealing temperature is 620° C (1150°F). This material may be torch- or kiln-annealed. Pickle as needed to remove oxides from the copper or stains from the AS, taking care not to leave items in the pickle too long, which can result in unwanted etching. White vinegar may be used as the pickling solution, though this works somewhat more slowly.

Over-annealing in frequency, time and temperature is not recommended. Over-annealing can cause excessive grain growth and significantly weaken the metal; the AS is less prone to this than .

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800.545.6566 riogrande.com #RioJeweler Finishing: This mokume may be finished using standard jewelry finishing techniques. Heavy buffing is not recommended as this may smear the surface of the metal and muddy the pattern. Use abrasives and tools that cut rather than grind. If a rotary tool is used, it is often best to remove the tool marks with abrasive paper or water stones before buffing. A matte or finely textured surface will best show off the colors of the metals in the mokume. Sandblasting or glass beading can produce interesting results; experimentation with surface finish is recommended before determining a final form.

Etching: May be done with nitric acid, “Multi-Etch”, ammonia, vinegar (overnight) or by reverse . Patina: The copper and shibuichi alloys will readily patina from handling. This mokume may be patinated with Baldwin’s Patina, Rokusho and some commercial coloring products. copper colors range from red-browns to orange and the shibuichi from olive green to medium grey. Patination with Baldwin’s Patina works best when the metal is warm, about 100°F. Experimentation is recommended, keeping in mind that patinas may change with use.

Note: Be sure to take proper safety precautions when using any chemicals or tools. This information represents the best knowledge and experience regarding the use of Shining Wave Metals products by their manufacturer; however, it is not guaranteed to produce an expected result and is no substitute for experimentation by any user of Shining Wave Metals products.

800.545.6566 riogrande.com #RioJeweler