Module 2: Granulation
with your instructor:
Elizabeth Hunt
About this module
Within this second Module, you will continue to discover the fun and magical properties of Argentium Silver. Through the process of granulation you will begin to understand:
- The unique ability of this material to bead up when heated.
- How to construct the beaded metal into stable clusters.
- The possibilities for a wider variety of unique designs and applications.
Module Intro Video
Tools Required (Not supplied)
Small gas torch (& butane gas)
Charcoal block
Flush cutters
Metal tweezers
Argentium flux & small brush
Argentium pickle
Glass or ceramic dish for pickle
Safety glasses
Additional Tools Suggested
Ring mandrel
Nylon hammer
Heat resistant pad
Spinner tray for charcoal block
*Items can be purchased from the website or appropriate suppliers.
Learning outcomes from this module
To gain practical experience, knowledge and understanding of:
How to granulate Argentium Silver.
How to fuse granulation beads into a decorative form.
Recognising the fusing temperature of Argentium Silver (heat/colour recognition) and developing control over this application.
The pickling process.
Heating metal by gas torch (developing heat control).
Finishing processes (polishing/satin finish/cleaning).
Module Assesment
Assessment for this Granulation Module will be based on the above learning outcomes. Your assessment will be carried out online, where you are required to submit photographs that clearly demonstrate the quality of your finished product. You will also be required to complete a short tick-box questionnaire to show your understanding of this specific process. Help, support and constructive feedback will be offered.
Successful completion of each Foundation Module is recognised by Argentium Courses, in association with the Argentium Silver Guild and Argentium International Limited. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Programme, you will be awarded a Certificate and offered free membership to the Argentium Silver Guild.
Your Instructor
Elizabeth Hunt
Elizabeth completed her BA hons in Silversmithing and Jewellery Design at Sir John Cass School of Art (part of the Guildhall University). Her degree covered not just the use of precious metals, but also mixed materials including ceramics and glass. On completion of her degree she gained employment by the world renowned ceramics company Wedgwood. During this time, one of her combined silver, ceramic and diamond set designs was shortlisted by De Beers for the Diamond Day stakes Trophy at Ascot.
Her roles within the Wedgwood Group included Marketing Manager for the Retail Division, Merchandise Controller for over 250 stores and finally International Product Development Manager for the company’s jewellery division, where she was part of the driving force that increased company sales to the highest profit margin within the group.
Her career in the jewellery industry has also included self employment where she worked with clients as diverse as Jaguar cars, Aspreys, Mappin and Webb, The Goldsmiths Group and Argent Provocateur - developing products and lines for their broad customer bases.
During the early 2000’s Elizabeth worked in Hong Kong handling quality control and factory liaison for Vivienne Westwood, Karen Millen, and Paul Smith amongst other clients of Simon Harrison Jewellery, then latterly as Head of Design at Gems TV’s head office in Bangkok. Here she ran a team of 20 designers and CAD developers.
Returning to the UK from Thailand, Elizabeth has been involved with Argentium Silver since 2011 and has loved the material since she first returned to making. Having just taken on a new studio for her work she will now be offering one-to-one classes as well as ongoing monthly demos with the live Jewellery Maker TV programme. Elizabeth states that “working in Argentium Silver is an exciting and stimulating experience and I love sharing the unique benefits and attributes of this wonderful material“, she goes on to say "I so wish it had been available when I was studying at college, as it opens up so many amazing possibilities.“