Soldering Argentium to sterling

[theresa]

Can anyone tell me what problems I might expect soldering an Argentium setting to a sterling band?:confused:

[Dennis]

I would say just treat it like a normal silver job, Theresa. Dennis.

[theresa]

Thanks Dennis.
Is it best to use Argentium solder (which I have) or just normal?

[mizgeorge]

You need to be careful with soldering Argentium from a couple of perspectives. It can easily become brittle at high temperature, and is also liable to collapse (usually rather unexpectedly) so you might want to rig a bit more support than you might usually. I also let it air cool if possible as it seems not to like rapid temperature changes. I would use whichever solder matches the larger part of the piece.

[Dennis]

For me, fixing the mount onto the shank is the last soldering operation, so I would normally use easy solder. This accords with Georges advice to be wary of overheating. Dennis.

[theresa]

:ta:
I watched a couple of videos and hope I now know what to do!