QuestionHello Thomas,
I'm working on a ring in 18kt white gold with a 50 karat oval jade. The base of the ring is cast and a large step-bezel, also in 18kt white gold is attached to the top of the ring by soldering. I use past flux and tried to solder with hard 19kt solder, but the cast ring oxydizes too quickly and the solder doesn't flow. I have tried to cut down the oxygen and use easy solder, but the problem persists. The pickling is also ineffective, most of the oxyde has to be sanded off. In addition, the white gold has changed color to a light bronze. What am I doing rong? Do you have any suggestions? Thanks in advance for your help.
AnswerSorry, Monica. I will be forced to wait another day or perhaps early Sat. morning to get this properly answered. Some stuff is happening at home and must be attended first. Thanks for your patience. I like to answer the same day but this time that was not possible. Yes, I will be back with you soon.
God Bless. Thomas. Sept. 14,2006 9:21pm.
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Monica, thanks for the question. It is nice to get one from someone doing the work! Tonight I will not be able to answer fully and plan to do that tomorrow evening. Fair enough?
I will ask this simple question and you may reply with the "follow-up" option if you get a chance before tomorrow evening. That might help. First, are you coating the ring in a boric acid/alcohol coat before fluxing for solder? What kind of paste flux are you using? What sort of torch or flame are you using? This might help. Thanks a bunch.
God Bless. Thomas. I will be back, be sure of that!
