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How do I electroplate a sphere?

September 1, 2010

I have four .5" diameter sterling silver basketballs (castings) that my client wants me to gold electroplate (3 gold and one nickel, actually).
I have a complete jewelry workshop and have been at it 30+ years, so I'm not seeking information on how to plate, instead I'm wondering how to hold the balls to plate them.

Robert H [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
to-the-trade bench jeweler - Powell, Tennessee, USA

September 1, 2010

Hi, Robert.

I would use an egg dipper shape rack, similar to what a child would use for dyeing easter eggs. Just move the spheres 3 or 4 times during the plating process, and do it quickly so the nickel plating does not have time to passivate. Good luck.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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