Which basic forms of metal have jewelers used to create jewelry?

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In the context of decorative art, jewelers have historically utilized three basic forms of metal to create jewelry:1

  • Sheet metal: Often beaten from gold or other precious metals, these sheets are cut into desired sizes and frequently decorated using techniques such as embossing, repoussé, or engraving.1
  • Cast metal: Metal is poured into a mold to achieve a specific shape. While simple reliefs may be cast directly, fully modeled objects often utilize the lost-wax process.1
  • Wire: Available in various weights and sections, wire is used for structural support, joining components, or creating decorative elements like chains and filigree.1

These components are shaped using various tools and joined through mechanical means or welding. While gold, silver, and platinum are the primary precious metals used for their malleability and aesthetic properties, modern jewelry has also incorporated nonprecious metals such as steel.12