Metal Clay is a revolutionary new craft material. There are two brands on the market, "PMC" made by Mitsubishi Materials Corporation, and "Art Clay" made by Aida Chemical Industries, both from Japan. It comes in fine silver and gold.
The metal clay feels like fine potter's clay but when objects are fired in a kiln they are transformed into pure precious metal. Almost like magic, but not really - the secret is microscopic particles of silver (or gold)suspended in an organic binder that burns out to leave solid metal.
Once fired you can use traditional metalsmithing techniques, like soldering, enamelling, and so on.
The product has been around since about mid-90's, but is still in its infancy. People are still experimenting, and discovering new ways to use it.
The metal clays are used by jewellers, potters, beadmakers, enamelists, and miniaturists. There are professional artists and hobbyists, children and adults using the clay. They range from experienced designers to first-time jewellery makers.
The fact that the metal comes in a clay form, offers the artist a whole new way to create gold and silver jewellery.
Millefiore and metal clay pendants and earrings. Contains an artist profile, precious metal clay products and supplies, art gallery, links, and details of classes taught. http://www.artique.org/
Definition and production process information including, shaping, firing, and finishing. [Society of American Silversmiths] http://www.silversmithing.com/1clay.htm
Provides information, instruction, and certification courses for silver clay. Features an artist background section, jewelry gallery, and links to technical information and related resources. http://www.MedaCreations.com/
Professional artists, certified instructors, and hobbyists are welcome. Message group and message archive with search function. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/metalclay/
Comprehensive metal clay information - firing charts for Art Clay and PMC, tutorials and general silver clay instructions, features photo gallery. Metal clay courses in UK. Supplier of Art Clay kilns, tools and equipment. http://www.silverclay.co.uk
International Society of Metal Clay Artisans, a non-partisan message board for metal clay information and inspiration. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ISMCA/
The Art Clay Club provides clear information, learning opportunities, and certification, for home or business craftworkers, jewellers, metalsmiths, modelmakers, retailers, resellers, and teachers. http://www.artclayclub.co.uk/
PMC Conference - Information from the International Conference for Precious Metal Clay enthusiasts, hosted every two years by the PMC Guild. Hand-outs available for download. http://www.pmc-conference.com/
Artsonia is a student art gallery showcasing art projects from schools around the world. Teachers grades K-12 display their class art projects in the museum for free. This lesson plan: Precious Metal Clay jewelry, for Middle grade level. http://www.artsonia.com/teachers/default.asp
