patinas toxic?

by jess
(canada)

Hello,
I'm just starting to make jewelry from stained glass, and I want to know if patinas are toxic, as the pieces will be touching skin. I'm using lead-free solder, but what about the patinas? Or do you have a suggestion for another product to use instead? Thanks for your help!

Answer

I honestly don't know the answer, but here's what I think. Yes...the patina solution itself is toxic, but the solution doesn't remain on the solder. Patina causes a chemical reaction between the tin in solder and the ingredients of the patina (in fact, it's a very basic form of plating). Once the color change takes place, the solution is cleaned off and all that remains is the copper or black solder. So...once it's cleaned and waxed, I can't imagine that it's going to be toxic to the skin.

The most reliable and safe method would be to have your pieces professionally plated. Do a Google search for Gold Plating to find someone in your area that could do it for you.

Also, I know that many jewelery makers use silver solder and polish the solder rather than changing the color.

If anyone reading this has a more accurate answer, please tell us what you know by writing in the comments section below.