Delicate Oxidising

Here is another one of my processes that I use to make my jewellery. I often get asked how I make the flowers in my Buttercup range black. Well, I use a chemical called liver of sulphur, which artificially oxidises silver and copper and other metals (except gold), turning them black. Although it is available in rock form which then has to be broken down and mixed with water, this is quite messy (and smelly!) so I use a brand called platinol which is ready to use (but still smelly!). Because it turns everything it touches instantly black, I have to apply it very carefully. I use a tiny brush and a very steady hand!