The following information is designed to answer some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) and guide you in making decisions about your ring style. Each ring is made to order. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me either at my studio at 360-756-6550, e-mail me at tbin@mokume-gane.com or complete the quote form. If you live in or are visiting the western Washington state area you are welcome to make an appointment with us. We usually see clients during the week between 11:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. or on Saturdays between 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m..Q: What materials are used in your rings?
The four most frequently used metals in my rings are: 18K yellow gold, 14K palladium white gold, 14K red gold, and sterling silver. I also use platinum, 22K yellow gold, 18K green gold, palladium and iron. We currently have 12 standard metal combinations.
Q: Why do you use sterling in your rings?
I use sterling silver so that I can etch it back a little to give a texture to the pattern. Since sterling silver is the whitest of all metals, it provides a good contrast to the colored golds. Rings made without sterling silver will have a smooth, matte finish. Rings that have sterling silver in them can be made with either an etched finish or matte finish.
Q: What are the combinations of metals that can be used in a ring?
We work in 12 metal combinations, but others may be available upon request. Our five most requested metal combinations are the following: (1) 18K yellow gold, 14K palladium white gold, 14K red gold and sterling silver; (2) 14K palladium white gold and sterling silver; (3) 14K palladium white gold, 14K red gold and sterling silver; (4) 18K yellow gold, 14K palladium white gold and sterling silver; (5) 18K yellow gold, 14K palladium white gold and 14K red gold. Please check with us if you are interested in a metal combination you do not see it on the website to see if it is feasable and for pricing.
Q: Why do you use a combination of 18k and 14k golds in the mokume gane rings?
For the best color 18K yellow gold is used in the mokume. For durability and color 14K gold is used for the red and white colors of gold, however 18K can be used if requested. We do not use 14K yellow gold either in the mokume laminate or for rails or liner.
Q I want to have platinum in my ring; what colors of gold or other metals can I use with it?
Due to the nature of the lamination process 18K yellow gold, sterling silver and iron are the only other metals I am currently using with platinum. If you want to have platinum as a part of your ring but want more color you may want to have platinum rails and/or a platinum liner with a gold and silver mokume band.
Q: I would like rails on my ring. Can I also have a narrow band?
Rails are typically 1-2mm wide each; therefore on a 4mm ring that would leave only a 2 mm wide band of mokume. A 2mm wide band of mokume would not show the pattern very well. Rails are not added on rings less than 5mm in total width; preferably bands with rails should be at least 6mm wide in order to best show the mokume band.
Q: Why would I want a liner?
Liners are most often an aesthetic choice. Liners can be in any color or karat of gold or in platinum, but are not needed for durability or comfort. Some people have very sensitive skin and may have reactions to sterling silver or 14k gold; if you have this type of sensitivity you may want to have an 18k gold or a platinum liner for your ring. If you wish to have a ring with with millgrain rails or in a channel you need to order a ring with both rails and liner in the same metal. Rings with iron in the mokume do require a liner.
Q: What kind of stones can be set in your rings?
Any kind of stone can be set in the mokume gane rings. However many stones are not suitable for everyday wear due to their delicate nature. Due to the stresses of everyday wear, it is recommended for rings worn daily or very frequnetly to use harder, more durable stones such as diamonds, rubies and sapphires.
Q: I already have a stone or want to buy my own stone, will you set it for me?
I can set a customer supplied stone or assist you in finding a stone through reputable dealers. The cost of setting a center stone starts at $75.00. plus the cost of the stone (if I obtain the stone). The actual price will depend on the size and quality of the stone and complexity of the setting.
Q: Do you have more photos and information that I can see?
We have a packet of information that includes a photo CD with over 90 images of mokume rings and mokume jewelry. If you would like a copy of this CD and other information please call the office at 877-408-7287 to request a copy.
