QuestionI have some silver I found at an old silver mine. I want to melt it down and make a chunk for my husband, who collects coind and stuff. Can I do this in a cast iron pot with a propane torch?
AnswerHello Katrina,
Your question really depend upon how much silver you intend to melt. If its a small quantity then you shouldbe able to melt it - eventually.
However I would consider buying a crucible, which should only cost say $20 - from a jewellery supply house.
Prior to use you should then melt borax into it which you should be able to buy from a chemist. This assist in the melt and create a sliding casing for the molten metal.
You can make a shape by carving some fire brick, cuttle fish or even a piece of shaped wood..........
Onec the silver is molten you can pour it into the mould and then clean it in 10% sulphuric acid + Water once it has cooled.
I usually sprinkle some extra borax over the molten metal just before I pour it. This removes any surface oxide and assists in the pour.
If you know someone with Oxy - Acetylene maybe a mechanic or plumber then this will give faster and hotter heat, which means the silver melt quicker and thus you create less oxide.
Hope this is of assistance.
Cheers, P
