Mokume Gane

Mokume Gane is an ancient technique of fusing layers of alternating metal colour combinations and then either grinding out a pattern or raising bumps to be filed off. Once lower levels are reveled the metal is flattened to bring all layers to the surface. Each piece of mokume gane is different depending on the maker, the metals used, the number of layers, and the way the pattern is created. This beautiful metal was traditionally used in Japanese ceremonial swords under the name of Damascus which is the process of creating the layered metals and subsequent patterning with steel. This is one of my favourite techniques and I frequently make mokume to then make exhibition pieces and wedding bands. I have many different samples of patterns and metal combinations to choose from based on how a piece will be worn.