Sterling Silver Alternative

[Soul105]

Quick question for my fellow Silversmiths...

I'm looking for a more cost effective metal to use in a one off commission silver headpiece. I only ever use sterling silver however need to find a cheaper alternative to bring the overall cost down of the headpiece.

I need something that won't tarnish, can be soldered and hardened. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance for any help :D

[Dennis]

You could find something here: https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&ei=fx7HXIebDbeo1fAPn7uZ0AM&q=German+silver+wire+and+sheet&oq=German+silver+wire+and+sheet&gs_l=psy-ab.12...22503.41692..49457...0.0..0.138.2460.27j3. ...2..0....1..gws-wiz.......0i71j35i39j0i67j0i131i67j0i131j0j0i10i67 j0i13j33i160j0i22i30j33i22i10i29i30.TimjrsyqtJ8

Or just use steel or stainless steel wire. Base metals solder well with easy and xeasy silver solder, or soft solder or joined by wire wrapping. If required they can be lacquered with any clear spray varnish preferably out of doors.

The only problem will be to clean up your tools and work area afterwards. Dennis.