Coloured Metals
Many ancient cultures used coloured metals to represent important symbols, or to use in intricate decorations, sculptures, and jewellery. In the distant past, the techniques used to create coloured metals were restricted to the privileged few that had access to the technology and know-how. The methods and techniques used were passed down through generations, and the secrets of how to create coloured metals were closely guarded.
Today, most people don’t fully appreciate how difficult and expensive it is to create coloured metals with traditional methods. Many of us take for granted that coloured metals are readily available in a variety of different hues. But to truly understand the complexity and difficulty involved in creating coloured metals, one only needs to look back at the history of coloured metals.
In the distant past, coloured metals were extremely valuable, and used to represent important symbols, for example to show status or wealth. This created an incentive for smiths and artisans to devise ever-increasing ingenious methods to create and manipulate a variety of different coloured metals.
One of the most popular methods of creating coloured metals was to alloy two different metals together. This was done by melting two metals with different melting points, so that the alloy would stay liquid under high temperatures. This allowed the smiths and artisans to mix different metals and manipulate the colour of the metal to suit their needs.
To create a variety of yellow and gold colours, for example, different mixtures of copper and tin were used. To make red and orange hues, iron and copper were alloyed, and to create green colours, bronze and zinc were commonly used.
Another method used to create coloured metals was to apply a thin coating of one metal on top of another metal. This was done by electroplating, a technique where metal ions of one metal are reduced upon that of another metal. This process created a metal with a metal coating over the top for extra durability, and also to change the colour of the metal.
Coloured metals of different hues were used to create coins, jewellery, sculptures and artwork. Coloured metals can now be found in many different items and pieces of artwork, from coins and jewellery to abstract sculptures and intricate decoration.
Coloured metals still exist today, even though the methods used to create them have changed and improved. Nowadays, advanced techniques, such as anodisation, are used to quickly and easily create a variety of different coloured metals. This is a far cry from the traditional methods used by ancient cultures, and still today, demonstration of skill and craftsmanship can be seen in the coloured metalwork created by artisans and craftsmen.
Coloured gold, bronze, and silver have been used in jewellery for centuries, and will continue to be used for many more centuries to come. Due to the difficulty involved in creating coloured metals, and the incredible demand for them, coloured metals will remain highly sought after.
