Timeline

Skip intro [00:15]

Preparation
Set up the chamber and microscope [00:35].
Hook the pendant inside the chamber [00:35].
Ensure the jump ring is flush [00:43].

Testing and adjusting power
Start with the lowest power setting on the laser machine [00:57].
Increase the power incrementally until you see action on the jump ring [01:05].
Adjust the power as needed [01:30].

Using black marker pen
Apply a black marker pen to the silver jump ring to assist the laser, as the laser is attracted to black [01:40].
Use the marker pen like a flux [01:58].

Laser Welding
Position the first shot adjacent to the joint [02:05].
Use the initial weld as a starting point to continue welding around the joint \[02:18].

Infilling with silver wire
If there's a gap, use infilling to add silver to the joint [02:32].
Offer silver wire to the joint and apply the first shot at the end of the wire \[02:57].
This technique can also be used to strengthen the joint [03:52].

Smoothing and tidying
Smooth and tidy up the weld using the laser [04:11]
Change the spot bo size using the lever at the top of the chamber \[04:23].
Apply black marker pen again for smoothing [04:23].

Reason for Using Laser Over Flame
The laser results in less contamination and requires less finishing \[05:06].
The laser provides more control [05:15].

Tips and Tricks

Infilling using laser wire - Infilling with a laser welder and wire allows jewellers to seamlessly fill gaps, repair cracks, or restore worn areas with precision without damaging delicate details.

Fire next to the join - To achieve a strong and effective join, aim the laser just next to the joint rather than directly on it. This helps the metal flow over the seam, creating a better bond. Firing directly on the joint may not provide the desired fusion and could weaken the connection.

Fire onto the thicker part - Firing onto the jump ring in this situation helps prevent damage to the pendant and allows the infilling to happen without affecting the pendant.

Spot Size - At the top of the DaDo chamber, there’s a lever to adjust the laser spot size. A larger spot size reduces power but is ideal for smoothing tasks. Pull the lever closest to the machine for the smallest spot size, and closest to you for the largest.