Introduction

Etching metal jewelry is the process of shaping metal by immersing it in a solution that removes metal from the surface and leaves a permanent, raised, or recessed layer. Etching is often used on precious metals like gold and platinum for either ornamentation or decoration purposes.

The etchings are sold as semi-precious jewelry and as plated jewelry pieces in silver, copper, bronze, nickel silver, white gold or gold alloys. There are different types of designs to choose from such as hearts and flowers; geometric shapes; waves; stylized animal figures such as cats or dogs; portraits of people – usually presidents – with their name engraved on the edge.

The process of etching involves:

• Drawing the design on metal ware.
• Heating the metal up to a working temperature.
• Applying acid with a brush usually made of camel or badger hair.
• Applying heat after applying acid will help promote a faster etch process and will remove more metal from the surface of the workpiece.
• Rinsing and cleaning off any debris with water or vinegar (for delicate items).
• Patting dry with soft cloth or tissue to remove excess water.

The process is labor intensive, especially when etching on gold or platinum because it is difficult to get an even etch. For this reason, the jewelry etchings are hand made pieces of jewelry and will vary slightly from the sample piece seen on the product display.

Pros And Cons Of Etched Metal Jewelry

There are some pros and cons to consider when dealing with etched metal jewelry:

Pros:

1.Most people prefer their jewelry to be more durable than non-etched items. If you are purchasing a piece of jewelry for a special occasion, for example, you can make sure that it does not get damaged under any conditions by purchasing an etched metal piece. These pieces also have a more classic look to them that is appealing to most shoppers. In addition, these pieces cost less than many other types of gemstones or semi precious stones.

2.You can easily tell the materials used to make the piece you are purchasing by looking at a close-up of the piece. If there is an etched metal surface, it looks just like all other semi precious stones and gemstones. If you want to restore your piece, all you have to do is add a few drops of oil or wax and then polish the whole thing with a soft cloth or tissue paper.

3.Etched metal jewelry is not very expensive. It can cost as much as $10 but it may cost more than that depending on what type of design you have purchased and how many layers are used in the design.

Cons:

1.If you want to make sure that you are purchasing the etched metal piece because of the design of it, you will want to make sure that you bring a magnifying glass with you to the store so that you can see that there are no scratches on the piece. If there is a scratch, it can be buffed out but this is not true for all pieces or jewelry designs and materials.

2.It is imperative that your hands and skin are clean before touching any of these pieces since they have been touched constantly by other shoppers in retail stores before they got to your arm.

Conclusion

Etching metal jewelry can be a fun way to make a fashion statement, design an original piece of jewelry, or use your artistic skills to make a personal item that can be passed down for generations.