ES

Finishes: matte, satin, brushed and hammered

· 1 min read · Techniques

Illustration: Finishes: matte, satin, brushed and hammered

The finish is the final texture of the surface. It defines how the jewel looks and feels, and hides or highlights scratches.

Steps of the technique: Decide the finish, Sand, Satin, Blast, Oxidize, Protect
Summary of the steps

High polish #

A mirror finish, almost reflective. It shows scratches easily.

Satin and brushed #

Achieved with steel wool, brushes or sandpaper in one direction; it gives fine lines and a soft shine that hides scratches.

Matte and blasted #

Sandblasting or bead blasting leaves an opaque, even surface with no shine.

Hammered #

Small hammer facets that reflect light irregularly.

Antiqued and oxidized #

A dark patina in the recesses to highlight relief (see coloring of metals).

Step by step #

  1. Decide the finish. Polished, satin, matte or hammered.
  2. Sand. With progressive grits.
  3. Satin. Sandpaper or steel wool in one direction.
  4. Blast. For the matte finish.
  5. Oxidize. To highlight relief.
  6. Protect. With wax or lacquer.

Tools and materials #

  • Sandpaper and steel wool
  • Brass or steel brushes
  • Sandblaster or glass beads
  • Patinas and waxes

Common mistakes #

  • Changing direction when satin-finishing.
  • Blasting without protecting stones.
  • Mixing grits when sanding.
  • Forgetting to protect a patina.

See also #

This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.