Charcoal block
Charcoal is a traditional soldering surface which creates a reducing atmosphere, whereby the combustible charcoal draws oxygen away from the silver and thus helps prevent oxidation. The heat from the charcoal block will also help to maintain the temperature of the metal. Charcoal blocks can fracture easily, and eventually burn away. The lifespan of a charcoal block can be extended by wrapping binding wire around it, or by embedding in soldering investment. The block should be quenched in water when you have finished using it for the day.
Magnesia block
Magnesia blocks sold specifically for jewellery purposes reflect heat well. They are soft enough to carve or cut to size with hand tools, but make sure you wear a suitable face mask.
Refractory bricks
Refractory bricks are used in the ceramic trade to make kiln walls. They often contain some magnesia, so have similar properties to magnesia blocks. Other types of fire brick (such as those used in fireplaces) will be fire-proof but won’t reflect heat back onto the work. Bricks taken from old storage heaters will actually absorb heat.
Ceramic board
A modern Asbestos substitute, most jewellery tool suppliers will provide their own version. This is a long lasting surface that also helps reflect heat back onto the work. It can be broken up to support the work. Do not use normal ceramic tiles from a DIY shop, as these cannot withstand the high temperatures. However, you could use them under your soldering surface to protect your tabletop.
Honeycomb board
Made from a ceramic material, this is another long lasting surface. Pins can be inserted into the holes, and one side of the board usually has round surface dimples to help hold small work in position.
Annealing tray with pumice
A revolving hearth with pieces of pumice inside is a traditional working surface that is ideal for annealing or when a level soldering surface isn’t required.
Tripod
Ideal when heating from underneath, tripods are used with a wire mesh screen support. This is useful for sweat soldering, enamelling and soldering bezels. Butane micro torches will not give enough heat to work effectively and a larger flame must be used as you will have to heat the mesh as well as the metal to be soldered.
