How to Melt Silverware

Silverware made of real silver has high resale value.

With the rising cost of precious metals, it might be a good idea to melt some of your silverware to make ends meet. Make sure you are melting actual silverware made from silver. Silver has a melting point of 1,762 degrees F. Normal heat sources such as your stove do not get this hot. Instead, place the silverware into a furnace using a crucible. A crucible is a heat-resistant container used to melt metals.

Things You'll Need

• Thermometer
• Silverware
• Table saw
• Carbide blade
• Crucible
• Long-level metal pliers

Instructions

1. Heat a coal-burning furnace to 1,800 degrees F. Check the internal thermometer for temperature readings.

2. Cut the silverware into smaller pieces using a table saw and a carbide blade. The pieces need to be small enough to fit in the crucible.

3. Fill the crucible with the pieces of silverware. Close the cover of the crucible and lock it.

4. Place the crucible into the furnace using long-lever metal pliers.

5. Heat the crucible for one hour at 1,800 degrees F.

6. Remove the crucible from the furnace using the long-level metal pliers. Pour the melted silver into a mold to create a new shape and let cool.

Tips & Warnings

• Melting silver occurs at dangerously high temperatures. Proper gloves, goggles, mask and clothing must be worn. If it is your first time, melt the silver under supervision from a blacksmith or alchemist.

References

• Georgia State University: Melting Points and Heat of Fusion
• University of Massachusetts; Transmutation: The Roots of the Dream; Vladimir Karpenko

Resources

• University of Denver: Copper, Silver and Gold