Solid Bronze jewellery, like that from HerbertandWilks Jewellery, is known for its durability, ease of cleaning, and longevity, ensuring it remains a lasting piece for decades to come, even with daily wear.
I love working in bronze and I value the metal for its rich colour that can age gracefully developing a patina in either a green or brown caused by the surface oxidising. This colour adds character to your jewellery.
Bronze complements other metals like solid gold, sterling silver and oxidised sterling silver jewellery, creating a cohesive look.
Bronze is seen as a symbol of enduring strength, and for some bronze is believed to amplify positive energies and deflect negative ones.
WHAT IS BRONZE?
Bronze is an ancient alloy with a history dating back to the Bronze Age. The Bronze Age lasted from approximately 3300 BC depending on whereabouts in the world to 1200 BC. This was a period where bronze replaced stone as the preferred material.
Bronze is a copper alloy, typically composed of 88% copper and 12% tin, resulting in a harder and more durable metal.
What Types of Bronze does HerbertandWilks Jewellery use for its Bronze Jewellery?
I primarily will cast into one of two Bronzes:
Silicon bronze– which contains copper, zinc, and 6% silicon. It can also include other alloys like tin and zinc. This bronze has a more caramel colour in appearance.
Manganese Bronze– is made of 3% manganese, copper, aluminium, iron, and zinc. Although harder to get a consistent cast this bronze has a beautiful golden colour when polished.
LOST-WAX CASTING METHOD
Bronze, like gold and silver, can be melted down and repurposed, aligning with sustainable and eco-friendly choices.
With all my Bronze Jewellery I use a process of Lost Wax Casting. I take my work to Regal Casting that cast my pieces and I then hand-finish my work in my Mt Eden workshop. For me, I love the organic feel and how this versatile metal allows each piece to be unique in its creation.
Each piece of HerbertandWilks Jewellery is designed to inspire your everyday through beauty, nature, and the human experience. It allows you to show your style and express your individual taste. This is jewellery that will become a cherished family heirloom.
SALLY HERBERT
Author
Sally Herbert, is the founder of HerbertandWilks Jewellery with over 10 years of expertise in crafting distinctive handcrafted pieces. Sally manages everything from design to making. Her contemporary, primitive and organic inspired creations resonate with stylish, adventurous jewellery collectors who value unique pieces with beautiful craftsmanship. Every piece narrates a distinct tale, mirroring the wearer's individuality.