I have a numismatist friend (coin collector and expert) who wonders if I could fuse a nickel based coin between 2 pieces of glass (the bottom layer probably dichroic on black) for him. Does anybody know if this is possible? I just looked up the melting point, and its 1400 something C, so it's not going to melt, but has anyone any experience with this? Might it go a horrible black so you can't see the details on the coin? if not, I'll just have to try it and see - will keep you posted :D
Nick
I think coins have loads of other metals mixed into them, I suspect (and I am guessing here) that different coins might produce different reactions depending on what's been added to them. Let us know how it works out!
I'd want to know the exact content of it before putting it in the kiln. Many coins do indeed just go black, but I'd want to know if there was anything like zinc in it which gives off noxious gases - not good for your health but may well also cause a rather large gas bubble.
Also, how big/thick is the coin? Too thick and your glass would likely crack anyway.
Thank you for your answers :D. I've no idea how thick it is yet. He's going to bring me a couple of cheap ones to try out. I might turn on the ventilation system and move it near the kiln while it's on, in case of nasty gasses. I'll see if he knows what's in it.
Nick
Is your friend hoping to be able to see the detail of the coin after its been fused inside the glass? My grandad asked me for something similar and I ended up sending him to a resin artist as the coin oxidised in the firing making it unrecognisable.
Quote from: Flyingcheesetoastie on August 28, 2013, 06:16:25 PM
Is your friend hoping to be able to see the detail of the coin after its been fused inside the glass? My grandad asked me for something similar and I ended up sending him to a resin artist as the coin oxidised in the firing making it unrecognisable.
I was afraid of that :(. Maybe I'll do the same as you. I don't know any resin artists, but I expect there are plenty online!
Than you!
Nick
You can get small kits and moulds normally a two part mix. Mix some put it in the mould, let it semi set put object in then pour the rest over to cover. Fairly simple, just watch out for air bubbles.
Not used this one but this sort of thing http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MOULDCRAFT-WATER-CLEAR-CASTING-RESIN-500g-KIT-use-with-jewellery-plants-leaves-/261067205339?pt=UK_Crafts_Other_Crafts_EH&hash=item3cc8d16adb (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MOULDCRAFT-WATER-CLEAR-CASTING-RESIN-500g-KIT-use-with-jewellery-plants-leaves-/261067205339?pt=UK_Crafts_Other_Crafts_EH&hash=item3cc8d16adb)
Regards
Nick
Thank you, Nick, I might try that. I did try a bit of resin casting back in the 70s, but, however careful I was, it always stayed sticky! I expect they've improved it a lot by now.
Nick
The polyester ones are still sticky Nick ;)
If you want something done in epoxy resin, give me a shout.
Quote from: mizgeorge on August 28, 2013, 09:16:50 PM
The polyester ones are still sticky Nick ;)
Agree totally, not good enough for your needs ;)
Quote from: mizgeorge on August 28, 2013, 09:16:50 PM
The polyester ones are still sticky Nick ;)
If you want something done in epoxy resin, give me a shout.
Thanks George, I'll see what he wants to do. I don't see the point of a resin that stays sticky - what are you supposed to do with it?
Nick
I've done large resin work with metal and get mine from Trylon in higham Ferrers. Their site explains the differences...the sticky resin is for complex multiple layers so that joins don't show. Crystal resin sets without stickiness and is nice and clear but it may be more cost effective to ask someone like George unless you're doing more pieces. Have a look at their site.
You would be better off sealing the coin in a glass tube. I have done many types of glass to meatsl seals but needs matching coe.
Ian