Hot Stuff: Annealing made easy with a Sharpie - Originally published in the MJSA Journal10/09

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Overview

Originally published in the MJSA Journal

A problem for entry-level jewelers is knowing when metal is properly annealed. If the metal is over-annealed, its crystalline structure breaks down, causing fractures. Therefore, under-annealing is better than over-annealing. Here's an easy trick that you can use to ensure that your metal isn't over-annealed.

First, grab a Sharpie^R marker and make sure your work area is well lit with a bright light. Mark a series of slashes on the metal. Heat the metal until the marks disappear.

Once the marks are gone from sight, count 1001, 1002, 1003, and then stop. This will bring you to the perfect annealing temperature, or just a tad under.

Karen Christians would like to thank Cynthia Eid of Arlington Heights, Massachusetts, and Charles Lewton-Brain of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, for this tip.

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