Things You'll Need
Aluminum mold frames (at least 2)
Jeweler's mold
Jeweler's wax
Wax file
Razor or sharp utility knife
Gold sheet
Hand torch or heated press
Gold polish and cloth
Any beads, stones or gems you want for your finished piece
Protective eyeglasses
How to Make Gold Jewelry. Serious enthusiasts can learn to make gold jewelry at home with wax molds and other jewelry equipment. Gold jewelry is more expensive and time-consuming to make than other types of jewelry, but the rewards of selling your own jewelry or giving treasured handmade gifts can more than make up for the difficulty involved.
Use Molds to Make Gold Jewelry
Step 1
Gather your supplies and safety equipment. Tie back your hair and remove any dangling jewelry to avoid accidents while you are working.
Video of the Day
Step 2
Slice your wax in half width-wise to create identical halves.
Step 3
Use a wax file to create an even surface on your wax halves. Set one of the halves aside.
Step 4
Carve out a pattern in your wax with a razor or utility knife to form a mold for the piece of jewelry you want to create. The pattern should be equal to the length, width and depth you want for your finished jewelry. Alternatively, you can use another mold (if available) or a copy of the jewelry you want to make and press it down into your (softened) wax to make an impression.
Step 5
Melt the gold with your hand torch or heated press. When using a hand torch, be sure to place the gold into a container that can withstand high heat.
Step 6
Pour the molten gold into your wax mold, being certain to fill it in fully. Pour slowly enough to avoid being burned, but quickly enough to ensure that the gold remains molten.
Step 7
Let the wax mold sit until the gold hardens, usually between 45 minutes to an hour. Place the mold in a press or clamp or under a heavy object to keep both halves tightly pressed together.
Step 8
Open the mold and remove the jewelry.
Step 9
Polish the gold jewelry using gold polish and a soft, clean cloth.
Step 10
Add any beads, stones or gems needed to finish your piece.
Step 11
Attach a clasp to the ends of a necklace, bracelet or anklet to complete it.
Tip
Familiarize yourself with your tools before you begin to make your piece. Practice under the instruction of a goldsmith or experienced jeweler, if possible.
Warning
Never touch heated surfaces with your bare skin. Always wear protective eyeglasses when handling torches.
Video of the Day