How to Melt a Men's Wedding Ring

Rings of any metal can be melted.

There are several reasons why you might melt down wedding rings. You may want to melt down old wedding bands that have no sentimental meaning in order to sell the precious metal. Or perhaps you want to create a new ring or piece of jewelry with your old ring. No matter your reasons, you can melt down an old men's wedding ring in as little as 15 minutes, so long as you have the proper equipment.

Things You'll Need

• Towel
• Jeweler's charcoal block
• Boric acid
• Leather gloves
• Torch

Instructions

1. Wipe the ring with a towel to remove dirt and dust.

2. Place the ring in the center of a jeweler's charcoal block. This block is capable of withstanding temperatures hotter than the melting point of most metals.

3. Sprinkle the ring with a light dusting of boric acid. This will help reduce the risk of burn marks on the metal. Keep the container of boric acid nearby, as you will need it again.

4. Put on leather gloves to protect your skin. Light the torch and adjust the flame so it is as large as possible without making a high-pitched hissing sound.

5. Hold the torch so the flame is about 6 inches away from the ring. Move the torch back and forth over the ring so it heats up the metal slowly. If the metal heats up too quickly, it is more likely to get burn marks.

6. Watch the ring closely. Sprinkle another pinch of boric acid on the ring once it gets a shiny, almost liquid-like appearance.

7. Continue moving the torch back and forth over the ring until it melts into a small puddle of molten metal. Let the metal cool down and harden for 30 minutes before you attempt to pick it up.

References

• All Experts: Jewelry, Gems, & Minerals