Silver jewelry making is a long and complex process that requires specialized skills and tools. The process begins with extracting silver from the ground, then refining it and shaping it into sheets or bars. These materials are then used to make jewelry, which is then decorated with gemstones or other stones. Finally, the jewelry is sold to consumers.
Here are the stages of making silver jewelry:
- Extraction: Silver is extracted from the earth either from mines or from natural deposits. Most silver mines are located in Mexico, Bolivia, Peru, and South Africa. Silver is extracted from natural deposits by mining or prospecting.
- Purification: After extracting the silver, it is purified to remove impurities, by dissolving the silver in nitric acid and then re-precipitating it.
- Forming: Silver is formed into sheets or bars, by pressing, stretching or twisting.
- Manufacturing: By engraving, etching, stabbing or cutting, the silver is then shaped and used to make jewelry.
- Decoration: After manufacturing, the jewelry is decorated with gemstones or other stones. This is done by soldering, setting, or inlaying.
- Sale: Finally, it is sold to consumers. Through retail or online.
Silver jewelry making is an ancient traditional industry dating back thousands of years. Today, silver jewelry making is a global industry that contributes to local and global economies.