QuestionHi I am refitting a deco brooch how do I replace or repair the reflective paint on the gemstone backs?
What product is this ? is it some kind of mirror paint?
It looks bronze on the back and mirror inside the stone?
thanks D
AnswerDave, unfortunately, this gets into the world of definitely nasty and possibly dangerous chemicals.
The wiki answer(link below) tells more than I can explain and will illustrations. Dave, keep in mind, silvered rhinestones are the older ones. Newer stones use aluminum metal instead of silver. The process is like that of silvering a mirror and unless the particular stone is truly worth the work to re silver the back, you are better to visit a good crafts store or shop "mirror back rhinestones" on the web. Almost all shapes and colors are available and are quite inexpensive. A "gentle" adhesive is used for glued-in gems, uv curing glue used for glass repair and watch crystals being the highest quality choice which will not damage the silvered back.
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Mirrors-by-Silvering-Glass
Use a follow-up to get back with me if need be. Allexperts has been a bit sloppy in getting questions to me in a timely manner and I apologize if this answer is late. Should you use the follow-up and not find me, please use this personal web site for contact:
http://landingheroncatsphotoschrist.blogspot.com/
Please try allexperts first because they do sponsor this service with volunteer experts and do deserve the first shot.
Thanks again, God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
