Saturday, November 10, 2007

"Japanese Laquer" Patina: Easy To Do!


The coin above left is a product of my “Natural Patination” process. I call this finish my “Japanese Lacquer” patina. If you like the finish, please see my “Natural Patination” article on my blog. I have used the NP process and allowed the coin to slowly oxidize for weeks.

Please remember that if I tried to achieve the same patina without using the Natural Patination it would have taken a year or so to darken to any degree. In fact, under normal conditions the coin would never darken to this degree. I used the coin to illustrate how dark I could go with the patina.

Once I achieve the patina value I want I then submerge the coin in white vinegar. I now recommend you use a solution of one part white vinegar and one part water. Also, one can halt the darkening process anywhere along the value spectrum. If you want the coin to be a few values lighter than that is when you use the white vinegar. Again, I wanted to illustrate for you how easily I could darken the coin to the degree you see. Please feel free to ask all the questions you like.

Let me know if these articles are an aid to you as you develop your zapping skills. I am doing this in the spirit of sharing with my ancient coin Brothers and Sisters. Please let me know if you want to see more of what I am doing with my coins. My article about Natural Patination can be found at the following URL: http://tinyurl.com/2hfqaa Thanks you and God Bless.. Jerry..