The PMC Process

Precious Metal Clay (PMC) was invented a little over 10 years ago in Japan. Fine silver particles are combined with a naturally occurring organic binder to create silver clay. When fired in a kiln or with a torch, the binder burns away leaving .999 percent fine silver.

With regards to the feel and texture, I find PMC as challenging to work with as porcelain clay. I have the design on paper or envisioned in my head before I start working with silver clay. Also, PMC dries quickly, unless modified, so my design process moves ahead uninterrupted.

The versatility of silver clay keeps my interest. It can be rolled, textured, cut, or molded to take on nearly any shape. The jewelry piece can be set (and fired) with a variety of lab created or (some types of) natural stones. Once thoroughly dry the clay pieces are placed in a small kiln and fired to over 1600 degrees F (750 C).

After cooling, the pieces are white with oxidized silver. The oxidation is buffed off, a patina may be applied and to add a shine, the pieces are placed in a tumbler or burnished.