How to Reduce Firescaling on Sterling Silver

Firescale refers to a red or purple discoloration that forms on silver pieces when exposed to high heat and oxygen. The best way to ward of firescale is to treat it with flux, a special mixture, during the blacksmithing process. If you're welding a craft project like a silver bracelet or tray, use this homemade flux technique to reduce the chances your piece will become discolored over time. All chemicals can be found at building supply stores, drug stores or specialty shops.

4 ounces boric acid
3 ounces borax
3 ounces trisodium phosphate
Bucket
Gallon of water
Spray bottle
Oven mitts
Old towel

Instructions

- 1
  Mix 4 ounces of boric acid, 3 ounces of borax and 3 ounces of trisodium phosphate in a plastic bucket.
- 2
  Boil a quart of water then pour carefully into the bucket, stirring the mixture. Let cool.
- 3
  Heat the silver item, either over a fire or by baking it for 20 minutes in an oven.
- 4
  Pour the cooled bucket mixture into a clean spray bottle.
- 5
  Lay the silver piece on an old towel outside. Use oven mitts to handle the hot silver.
- 6
  Spray the silver with a thin layer of the boric acid mix, coating a thin, even layer on all sides. This should form a white layer over the silver.
- 7
  Continue with your soldering as your project necessitates.

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