Malleability
A material's ability to deform under compression, such as forming a thin sheet by using a rolling mill.
Mallet
A hammer with a large head, used to deliver a softer blow than a conventional hammer in order to avoid surface damage to the object being struck. The head may be made from wood, plastic, rubber or rawhide covered steel.
Mandrel
A tool with a round cross section that a ring or bangle can hammered against to create a round form of the correct size.
Metric
The metric system is an international decimalised measurement system used in most countries. Imperial measurements are still used in the USA and both are used in Great Britain.
Micrometer
A tool for precisely measuring small distances, usually in the form of vernier or digital callipers.
Mohs scale
The Mohs scale of mineral hardness rates the scratch resistance of various minerals, based on the ability of one natural mineral to scratch another.
Mops
These are often made from felt or calico, and are mounted on a rotary shaft. Once impregnated with a polishing compound, it can rapidly polish a piece of jewellery.
Mordant
A solution of acid and water used for etching metal.
