Oh no! I lost my wax

Doug Williams

Well, that’s exactly what is supposed to happen! In place of the wax, you’ll pour molten metal into the void left by the wax to form your new jewelry creation!

Have you already failed at your “exercise more” and “lose weight” New Year’s resolutions? Well, don’t stress over that – just be happy and attend our first meeting of 2018 (Monday, January 15, at 10:00 a.m.) to begin your fascinating new hobby in the Rock, Gem & Silver Club! (One of the largest clubs in Sun Lakes)

This month, we are highlighting the “Lost Wax” casting method of making jewelry out of silver, ancient bronze or even solid gold! (Yes, the Native Americans used a similar form called Sand Casting to make jewelry.)

“Lost Wax” casting sounds a bit complex at first, but really, it’s quite simple with these four easy steps:

– A wax mold (provided) is covered in plaster (investment);

– It is then heated in a kiln (oven) to melt the wax out (hence the term “Lost Wax”);

– Leaving a negative impression into which the molten metal is poured;

– Surprise! After you remove the plaster (and polish), you have a beautiful piece of jewelry!

The oldest lost wax cast sculpture was found in a cave in Israel and has been dated back to 3,700 B.C. which means we are still using methods that are over 5,700 years old! (except we have three very modern shops here in Sun Lakes)

Just a few of the many things you can make with the Lost Wax process are rings, pendants, bracelets, belt buckles, earrings and charms (you name it and you can cast it in metal with the Lost Wax process).

While you can create most anything within the Art of “Lost Wax,” most of us like to design and cast simple rings or bracelets and then move up to more intricate pieces. But it’s all up to you … use your imagination! We have excellent instructors who will help you get started and then guide you through the fun of making your own jewelry.

Many of our club members find they enjoy making jewelry for themselves, but the real satisfaction comes from making beautiful pieces and then giving them to your family and friends as gifts.

Professional instructors Anita Metzbower and Jim Marquis have designed and finished lost wax jewelry. “Nita” is a lifelong school teacher who loves making jewelry and enjoys helping others. “Jim,” who is chair of the Lost Wax department, is a former 101st Airborne Vietnam Veteran who is especially patient with newcomers while they learn the art of lost wax jewelry making.

We look forward to meeting you on Monday, January 15, at 10:00 a.m. in the Navajo Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club. So, mark your calendar right now and then come join us.

For more information, contact Jim Marquis at [email protected] or 480-883-7719 or Anita Metzbower at [email protected] or 410-241-1391.