HOW IT'S MADE
The Electroforming Process: A Fusion of Art and Technology
Step 1: Design Inspiration:
Every jewelry piece starts with inspiration. I spend time carefully conceptualizing each creation, drawing inspiration from nature, my island home Bermuda, geometry, and the beauty that surrounds us.
Step 2: Cleaning and Preparing the Piece:
The piece is assembled using copper wire, gemstone, and a temporary adhesive to keep the pieces in place during the electroforming process. Before electroforming begins, the handcrafted piece undergoes a meticulous cleaning process. This ensures that the surface is free from any impurities or contaminants, creating the perfect canvas for the electroforming deposition.
Step 3: Painting with Conductive Paint
Both pieces are then covered in a special copper conductive paint which helps form a bridge between the metal and the organic matter. This process is repeated 2-3 times to ensure the pieces are covered thoroughly.
Step 4: Electroforming Bath:
The magic of electroforming happens in a specialized bath. The piece is submerged in a solution containing metal salts and other chemicals. An electrical current is then applied, causing metal ions to adhere to the surface of the model, gradually building up the desired thickness.
Step 5: Copper or Gold Buildup:
For my copper jewelry (and for the base layer), copper ions are attracted to the model, creating a layer of pure copper. The process for gold jewelry is similar, with gold ions forming a delicate and luxurious layer on the model. This entire process can take between 48-72 hours for each piece.
Step 6: Precision and Patience:
Electroforming requires precision and patience. The thickness of the metal layer is carefully controlled to achieve the desired aesthetic and structural integrity. This is where the artistry of our craftsmen truly shines.
Step 7: Finishing Touches:
Once the electroforming process is complete, the jewelry piece undergoes meticulous finishing touches. I make sure carefully polish, refine, and sometimes add additional elements to enhance the overall design.
Step 8: Quality Assurance Quality is at the heart of everything I do. Each piece undergoes rigorous quality assurance checks to ensure it meets my business' standards and exceeds your expectations.
Discover the Artistry of Electroformed Jewelry
Explore our collection and experience the beauty of handcrafted gold jewelry. Each piece tells a story of creativity, innovation, and dedication to craftsmanship. Embrace the uniqueness of electroformed jewelry at Raw Island Jewels and spoil yourself with wearable artistry.