Silver Embellishment - Karaikudi
Silver blocks are melted and converted into silver biscuits of required size and these biscuits are converted into silver sheet, using pressing machine. The sheet is measured for the required length/dimension and cut accordingly. The sheet is then rolled into a cylinder shape.
Parts of the article is prepared separately and soldered to join them. Flux is applied on joints and heated to solder the joints. The heated article is dipped in sculpture liquid and then in normal water. It also removes the black coat from the article, thus giving it a glittering effect. The article is then hammered to give the desired shape. The heating and cooling process is repeated for 3 to 4 times in between to strengthen the properties of metal.
Once the article has obtained the desired shape, it is filed and the surface is smoothened using a sand paper. Polish is applied to bring out the shine. Designs are drawn on a sheet of sticker, which is cut and pasted on the polished article. The areas not covered are sand blasted to give a matt finishing and dull effect. The stickers then removed and artisan carves the design on those areas using different types of chisels.
This technique is used to highlight the design on the product. Finally the product is buffed and polished to attain shine and luster.
