Titanium
Titanium is one of the most common
elements in the world. Its combination of light weight,
strength and non allergenic properties along with its ability to
be colored makes it a great material for making jewelry.
More and more jewelry is being made of titanium in recent years.
Wire artists have an advantage in working with titanium and
because they have unique ways of
shaping and assembling jewelry that do not require solder.
While titanium and niobium can be soldered, the equipment for
doing so is very expensive.
The colors on titanium are actually an
oxide layer. Titanium must be etched with acid before it
is anodized. Once it is etched, the anodizer is used to
color the wire. These colors are predictable.
Certain voltages give us certain colors. We can even
solder a wire to a paint brush to achieve the color exactly
where we want it.
Heat can also apply this oxide layer,
which results in colors on the titanium.
Here are a few tips for working with titanium
-
Cut titanium and niobium in sizes no larger than 18
gauge with side cutters suitable for cutting stainless
steel.
-
Be very careful not to scratch the wire as it will
remove the oxide coating created in the anodizing process.
-
Use your hands as much as possible rather than your
pliers in bending the wire.
-
Titanium work hardens more than
niobium
-
Titanium does not conduct heat very
well, so when it gets hot while working it (such as on a
lathe or when being drilled, it can burn).
-
In sizes larger than 18 gauge, bolt cutters are useful.
-
Since the wire will scratch, it is
best used in earrings, bracelets or pendants
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