How to Make a Precious Metal Clay Bracelet

Developed in Japan in the 1990s, precious metal clay (PMC) is made up of metal particles such as gold and silver, and mixed with moist organic binding. Similarly to ceramic clay, the substance can be worked and moulded by hand to form various shapes. Ideal for jewellery making, the soft substance is malleable and a process of etching or stamping can easily create intricate designs. When heated by a kiln or gas torch the binding is stripped away to leave the metal particles, resulting in an attractive looking piece. The final product can be polished, decorated and enamelled in various finishes to create a unique item of jewellery.

Due to the soft substance of precious metal clay, it can be decorated and embellished to create an individual and stylish item that looks like an original silver item once fired and polished.

Getting started

Creating a bracelet using PMC can be slightly tricky due to its dimensions and natural rounded form. However, there are certain techniques that can be used to create an attractive and high quality piece of wrist wear.

The first technique of creating a bracelet using PMC is to make a flat band and fire it. The metal clay can then be hammered into a round bracelet shape. Alternatively the bracelet could be created around a mould so that it is fired already in the correct shape.

Technique One

Create the basic bracelet shape using PMC, bearing in mind that the metal clay shrinks by approximately 10% during firing. Allow the bracelet to dry, and in the meantime the design can be put together. On a flat base of PMC either attach stones and beads or stamp in designs to the soft clay shape. 

The bracelet and additional design pieces can be dried but before cleaning or polishing takes place. The bracelet needs to be struck into shape with a hammer using the relevant sized rod until you reach the desired dimensions. All the bracelet parts can then be fired together into one piece and polished to create the completed bracelet.

Technique two

Alternatively, a PMC bracelet can be made using a mould for the bracelet shape, which gives a stronger base and reinforced bond. Moulds for precious metal clay jewellery are available in a variety of sizes.

When using the mould the bracelet needs to overlap at the ends to ensure the bond is secure and won’t become detached during the firing process. Once the moulded bracelet has dried, any additional decorative sections can be attached to adorn the piece before being heated in the kiln or by gas torch.

To complete your PMC bracelet various gems, pearls or beads can be attached to the final polished bracelet using specialised glue. It is important these are added after firing as they can be ruined in the high temperature conditions. There are also a variety of finishes to choose from, whether you prefer a polished, glossy look or natural matte look. Unlike traditional metalsmithing PMC offers endless design options, making each piece of jewellery unique.

Source by A Hunter

How to Make a Precious Metal Clay Bracelet