Chasing and Repoussé:

The technique of Chasing and Repoussé offers an artistic sculptural advantage to metalworking. A malleable metal, gold or silver, is hammered into relief from the reverse/back side, Repoussé (French). Chasing is the design detail hammered to the front side with the use of special tools/punches that have uniquely shaped feet to create an impression on the metal. The two techniques are used in conjunction or by themselves to create a finished piece. This technique dates back 3000 years to early civilizations and can be found in all cultures that have metal. The work was primarily incorporated into vessels and jewelry.

Cold Formed:

A technique in which a malleable metal is formed by hand, with the use of dapping blocks/forms or with a hammer to create a sculptural element or finished work.

Fusing:

The welding of metal without the use of solder. Metals that fuse are 22k Gold, Fine Silver and Argentium Silver.

Filigree:

An Italian word made from the Latin words for thread and grain used as a design technique using fine silver or 22K Gold with twisted wires, granules and cells creating a beautiful delicate open lace-like patterns.

Granulation:

A texture designed of hexangular close packed spheres or the use of spheres to create a design. The metal must be a fusible metal such as 22k Gold or Fine Silver. An ancient technique.

Reticulation:

The overheating of a metal surface to create an abstract texture.