Metal thickness

  • Member
    July 5, 2015 4:41 PM EDT

    I want to make champleve gold bracelet. How thick must be the 18K gold if I want 0,5-0,7mm depth enamel on top and don´t want to use counter enamel. Can I use 22K gold with better results? Is there any ratio/coefficient for gold/enamel, silver/enamel thickness?

    Thank you:)

    Rudolf

  • Leader
    July 10, 2015 9:46 AM EDT

    According to my notes from Linda Darty, Professor & Champlevé instructor, traditionally 14 or 16 guage metal is used to etch a piece for enameling, especially a large piece, because the heavier metal will still have structural strength, even after is is etched. If you want to have plenty of room to inlay color, you should plan to etch about halfway through the metal, but this isn't always necessary. On large vessel forms use 14 -16 gauge metal, but  on smaller jewelry pieces, especially if they are formed, 18 - 20 gauge metal work well, depending on the function of the piece.

  • Member
    October 7, 2020 12:05 PM EDT
    Hallo, which thickness should have Dold foil for enamelling. i forget it all times!

    thank you

    Edmund