What is PMC (Precious Metal Clay) or Art Clay? This artistic clay is an innovative product of inspiration. PMC is a material developed and patented in the 1990s by Mitsubishi Materials of Japan and Aida Industries. This recycled product is made from many different sources like film stock and negatives. Microscopic particles of silver or gold are mixed with a moist organic binders and water to create a malleable, versatile material that has the feel and working properties of modeling clay.
How is it used to make jewelry? Using simple tools, these clumps of clay are easily given shape, texture, and character. After air-drying, the objects are heated to temperatures approaching the melting point. After being heated by a butane torch or fired in a kiln, the binding material burns away which causes the object to shrink to a degree equal to the volume originally occupied by the binder. This process leaves 99.9% Pure Silver. Fired PMC can be polished, soldered, enameled, and enjoyed like any other silver item. PMC is available in silver and 22k gold alloy. Pure silver and pure gold are easiest to use because these noble metals resist the formation of oxides and fuse at easily attainable temperatures. Platinum (the other noble metal) can be made into a clay but requires temperatures beyond the reach of most kilns.
What is the difference between Sterling Silver and Pure Silver? Sterling Silver is composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of one or more other metals. A common misconception is that copper always makes up the remainder, when in reality titanium, platinum, palladium, and a list of other metals are often used. The addition of another metal to the silver creates an alloy. Sterling Silver is stronger than Pure Silver, and as an alloy, it tarnishes more quickly as well. Pure Silver is composed of 99.9% silver and nothing else.
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