Precious Metal Clay (PMC) made its first appearance in the 1990’s and has become popular in jewellery making. The clay is a combination of binders and tiny particles of precious metal suspended in the clay.

Once heated, the binders burn off, allowing the particles of metal to combine and resulting in a solid metal piece. The most common type of PMC is silver clay, although gold and even bronze clays are available (the gold clay being very expensive).  Read more... (585 words, 2 images, estimated 2:20 mins reading time)

Tags: Bangle, binders, filigree, Gold Jewellery, impressions, lace, metals, Precious Metal Clay, Remarkable Material, rollers, Shrinkage, Silver Beads, Silver Bracelet, Silver Clay, Specialist Equipment, Textured Surface, Tiny Particles

There are several ways a collector can ruin their valuable coin collection without even really thinking about them. If you really care about protecting your collection, then take the special time to learn exactly how to properly handle, clean, store, and protect all your coins.

Accidentally exposing your coin collection to the elements can ruin them, which may include storing your collection in extreme temperatures or humidity. Basements and attics are the worst place to store your coin collection because of the temperature and humidity can cause oxidation to gather on your coins. These types of conditions can also cause storage materials to break down quickly, which can include plastic and cardboard containers.  Read more... (553 words, estimated 2:13 mins reading time)

Tags: Abrasions, Attics, basements, Cardboard Containers, Coin Collection, Dry Environment, Extreme Temperatures, grit, latex gloves, Luster, Mint Set, Own Skin, Oxidation, Proof Set, several ways, Special Time, Storage Materials, Tiny Particles, Tiny Scratches, Type Coins