Information
The Unique Art of Silver Formation
The process of forming silver by dropping molten metal into a container filled with a sacrificial medium is a fascinating and intricate technique. This approach allows the medium to impart unique forms and textures onto the metal, creating one-of-a-kind designs that are both artistic and functional. The sacrificial medium, which could be water, dried spaghetti, chick peas or other substances, cools and shapes the silver as it solidifies, producing organic and unpredictable patterns. This method is highly valued in jewellery making and metal artistry, as it enables craftsmen to create bespoke pieces with distinctive finishes, making each creation truly unique. One of the most exciting aspects of this technique is its sustainability and resourcefulness. Often, the sacrificial mediums used in the process are readily available, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly, making it an eco-conscious choice for artists and craftsmen. By repurposing everyday materials to create extraordinary designs, this method not only minimizes waste but also encourages innovation and experimentation. This aligns with the growing demand for sustainable practices in the art and fashion industries, further enhancing the appeal of this creative process.
The Chickpea Casting Adventure
Yes, you read that right – chickpeas!
One of our favourite techniques for creating unique silver pieces starts with pouring molten sterling silver into a tin of chickpeas. The silver flows into all the gaps and spaces, creating the most incredible organic shapes as the chickpeas instantly burn away. It's a bit like magic, and we never quite know what we're going to get until we crack open the cooled casting.
That's when the treasure hunt begins. We carefully examine each silvery form, looking for interesting shapes that catch our eye. Does this bit look like it wants to be a pendant? Could that curve make a beautiful ring? We're constantly surprised by what emerges – sometimes we see the potential immediately, other times a piece will sit on the workbench for weeks until suddenly we see exactly what it should become.
Once we've selected our favourites, we set to work transforming these raw castings into finished jewellery. Cutting, shaping, filing, and polishing brings out the beauty hidden in each piece, while keeping all those wonderful organic textures that make chickpea casting so special.
The best part? Every single piece is genuinely unique – nature and chance create patterns we could never design ourselves.