Jewellery is commonly made using which metals? Most women and men usually guess the answer to be either silver or gold. Another group of people would suggest platinum to be the best metal for creating jewellery. Only a few people would have guessed pewter as it is not recognised by most people. When we hear of pewter, we often think of pewter goblets. However, the truth is that most jewellery makers use pewter to make fine jewellery. This valuable alloy is not easy to find and is considered to be the fourth most commonly used metal to make jewellery.
Pewter can be polished to mimic platinum, silver as well as other interesting white metals. Moreover, pewter is also used to achieve a darkened surface which creates a bronzed look. Other jewellery makers use this special metal as a base by adding silver or gold plating.
Why is this Particular Metal Important to the Jewellery Making Industry?
The metal, pewter, has been in existence for decades. You can find examples of these unique metals in places such as museums and other institutes that specialise in collections that date back to ancient history. The pewter metal was never used to create weapons since it is too soft, but it was discovered during the same period that bronze was discovered.
However, you need to understand that bronze is composed of copper while the pewter metal is composed of tin. Another difference between these two metals is that pewter is soft compared to bronze, which is very hard. Moreover, pewter metal has other unique qualities that are ideal for jewellery making.
Here are other reasons as to why jewellery makers use pewter metal to make jewellery and other luxurious elements.
Durable
The pewter metal might not be as hard as bronze, but one thing for certain is that this particular metal is very durable. Furthermore, it does not tarnish as other metals do such as silver, which is why many jewellery makers prefer working using this unique metal.
Affordable
Pewter metal contains a few elements that are easy to find and more affordable than silver and gold. These elements are traces of copper, tin and a few hard metals. However, one thing for sure is that pewter products are usually flashy and stylish yet they cost the craftsman less capital to create something great and unique. Other precious metals might be more popular but cost more to craft.
Versatility
Pewter metal is also considered to be easy to work with since it is as soft as tin. For this reason, it becomes easy for artisans to come up with complex and distinctive designs that are made using this precious metal. Some of the factors that contribute to the pricing of each product are the design as well as the details that are included in each end product.
Lead-Free Pewter: What is It?
Long ago, pewter metal contained lead which was used as a hardener. However, people were aware of the fact that lead was not a safe substance and for this reason, they limited the use of it. But now with the help of the NEY metals brand, you can get lead-free pewter and other supplies that are safe to use such as utensils, tableware and even jewellery that may come into contact with your skin. Pewter alloys also contain small amounts of antimony, silver, and copper. Another reason as to why jewellery makers choose to invest in this particular metal is because of its appearance
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