Laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) welding is one of the most technically advanced forms of welding. Its applications span across a diverse array of industries from aerospace to fine jewelry making.
Laser welding uses an amplified beam of light to produce a solid weld with an almost invisible seam in seconds. It sounds complicated but is really quite simple. Laser welding uses a specific wavelength of light to accomplish the welding process.
The beam of light emitted from a laser welder is concentrated, adjusted and controlled by the operator, in much the same way as the flame of a soldering torch is regulated by a jeweler.
All the traditional jewelry metals can be laser welded:
- all base metals
- karat gold
- sterling silver
- titanium
- palladium
- platinum
Platinum, historically one of the most difficult metals to work with and repair, is one of the easiest metals to laser weld. Welding different metals together is also possible, for example gold to platinum and sterling silver to gold.
Antique Jewelry Restoration & Repairs
Antique jewelry typically requires many hours of preparation and set up to remove stones and heat-sensitive materials. Jewelry laser welders produce a small heat zone and most applications, such as sizing and filigree repair can be accomplished without removing heat-sensitive stones, (i.e., opals, emeralds and pearls). Reducing the set-up time and eliminating reassembly time of intricate pieces makes it possible to complete these repairs in a fraction of the time needed for traditional torch methods.
Repairs to Spring Mechanisms
Again, the heat zone is so small and the beam generated by the laser welder is so precise that it will not affect the spring mechanism. This makes it possible to weld euro-wires, lobster clasps and spring rings.
Common Jewelry Repairs
After a small amount of training, your store personnel can accomplish chain repairs, leaving the highly-skilled bench jeweler to handle the more difficult jobs.
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