Making your own silver solder for jewelry
Materials: Fine Silver (99.9% pure) Copper Zinc Boric Acid (optional, for flux) Tools: Digital Scale (for accurate measurement) Crucible Torch (propane or acetylene) Tongs Ingot Mold Rolling Mill or Hammer Jeweler’s Saw Protective Gear (gloves, safety glasses) Types of Silver Solder: There are generally three types of silver solder, each with a different melting point: Hard Solder (highest melting point, used first in the soldering sequence) Medium Solder Soft Solder (lowest melting point, used last in the sequence) Ratios for Making Silver Solder: Hard Solder: 75% Fine Silver 20% Copper 5% Zinc Medium Solder: 70% Fine Silver 20% Copper 10% Zinc Soft Solder: 65% Fine Silver 20% Copper 15% Zinc Steps: Measure and Prepare the Metals: Cut the metals into small pieces for easier melting. Weigh the fine silver, copper, and zinc according to the desired ratio. Prepare the Crucible: Place the crucible on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Add a small amount of boric acid to the crucible to h...