What is Mokume-gane?
Mokume-gane is an ancient Japanese technique. This 300 year old process was originally
used in the crafting of swords, armor and decorative furnishings. It didn’t become a
Process used in crafting jewelry for more than 200 years.
Process used in crafting jewelry for more than 200 years.
Each metal billet starts with 17-21 alternating layers of metal.
The billet is heated to a temperature at which the layers fuse
Together to form one block or billet. Great care must be taken
When cleaning, pressure and in temperature control for the
Layers to adhere to one another.
Together to form one block or billet. Great care must be taken
When cleaning, pressure and in temperature control for the
Layers to adhere to one another.
Once the billet has been crafted it is cooled and the patterning can
Begin. By hammering, carving and filing through the layers the
Different metals are exposed. Each method of working the billet
Produces a unique pattern.
Begin. By hammering, carving and filing through the layers the
Different metals are exposed. Each method of working the billet
Produces a unique pattern.
By further hammering and rolling out the billet in a rolling machine
The metal is stretched to reveal a woodgrain like pattern. Thus the
Translation of Mokume-gane “eye of the woodgrain metal”
The metal is stretched to reveal a woodgrain like pattern. Thus the
Translation of Mokume-
Care and Maintenance of Mokume-gane
Mokume pieces that contain copper will naturally patina over time. Some
Have had a patina applied. The darker coloring of the copper helps the
Patterning to be vibrant. If you do prefer a lighter color and contrast a
Polishing cloth can be used to lightly buff the copper. Chemicals in hair
Products, perfumes and cleaning or hot-tubs can effect the color of the
Metals also. So as with all of your fine jewelry it should be the last thing
You put on before heading out the door and the first thing off when you
Get home.
Mokume pieces that contain copper will naturally patina over time. Some
Have had a patina applied. The darker coloring of the copper helps the
Patterning to be vibrant. If you do prefer a lighter color and contrast a
Polishing cloth can be used to lightly buff the copper. Chemicals in hair
Products, perfumes and cleaning or hot-
You put on before heading out the door and the first thing off when you
Get home.
Credit to: Mokume-gane in the small shop by Steve Midget, Mokume-gane by Ian Ferguson, Lecture on Mokume-gane by James Binnion
