gold ear posts

[theresa]

Is it better to make earposts from 0.8 or 1mm gold pin wire or just buy them.
Will the gold get soft when soldered as with silver?
I am asking because the price of gold inhibits experimentation slightly!
Thanks guys :)

[enigma]

I just buy mine and yes the gold will anneal when soldering, although IME not as bad as silver- I tend to burnish them to harden again and only use easy solder and try and be quick...

[mizgeorge]

I also tend to buy them as I like the little bases, and I'm rubbish at notching! I avoid using anything thicker than 0.8mm as it can be uncomfortable for some people's piercings.

I like these: https://www.cooksongold.com/Findings/9ct-Yellow-Headed-Ear-Pin---------Pack-of-6-10mm-X-0.8mm-prcode-NBJ-103X

[Dennis]

Theresa, round wire can be hardened simply by twisting it. Give the post a quarter turn in three or four evenly spaced places with pliers and it will be stiff as a rod, with no noticeable distortion.

It also tests the solder joint. Dennis.

[theresa]

Thank you - I think I will just buy them ready made - less hassle.

[LydiaNiz]

Yup, I buy the linger 0.8 pins (the plain, nothing on the end kind)

[ajda]

For those who might make their own, any tips for a reliable notching technique?
Alan

[ps_bond]

http://www.ganoksin.com/borisat/nenam/earpost.htm