Silver is a soft metal and looks beautiful when it is hammered.
The process of hammering the metal is not difficult, but it takes a skilled artisan to refine it to the point where it can bring out the best in, not only the silver itself, but in the stones in the setting.
The hammering, or pounding, creates unique patterns which makes each piece different and bespoke as the jewelry maker brings the metals own fingerprints to life.
To create these patterns, the silver is laid on an anvil block face up.
A special tool called a ‘chasing’ hammer is used. It has round end that is perfect for creating the textures needed in the silver.
Blows required are often light. There is no need to hold the hammer up high and bash at the metal. Instead, the artisan keeps it only a few inches above and light strikes the metal.
The art of hammering silver.
As the metal can be damaged by heavily blows, handcrafted pieces are usually started with soft and slow dents.
Then they are turned and ‘worked’ until the desired texture is created.
This induces a natural rhythm which emulates the artisans and blacksmiths of the past.
Ring clamps and anvil clamps help keep smaller pieces in place. They are particularly useful for small earrings and rings.
The textures produced by silver hammering remind us of the uneven landscape of Mother Nature.
They evoke a sense of being grounded and help us to reconnect with the earth.
They add a naturally supportive background to gemstones and precious stones and bind them to the forces of the natural world.
When the moonlight dances off the hammered silver, it evokes the spirit of the forests and the power of the goddess for the wearer.
For men, hammered silver reminds us of the inner strength of the provider and protector.
