Silver Clay, Art Clay Silver, Precious Metal Clay, PMC – whatever name you call it, this magical product is revolutionizing the world of jewelry making.
Basically, microscopic particles of pure silver (or gold) are embedded into an organic binder.
This creates a putty-like clay which can be molded, stamped, impressed, cut, extruded, sculpted, rolled, brushed, etc., into whatever shape or form you desire.
After drying, the clay is then fired, either with a torch or a kiln. During firing, the organic binder burns away, all the metal molecules bond (sinter), and the finished piece of pure silver or gold is left.
There is a 9-15% shrinkage factor depending on which clay you use. Stones and glass can be set into the clay and fired in place as well.
[ by Lis-el Crowley ]