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Silver Sheet, Wire, Chenier & Granules — Your Complete Jewellery Metals Guide
What is the difference between silver sheet, wire, chenier and granules?
From fabrication to casting, the silver form you choose determines the strength, finish and precision of your jewellery.
At Warburtons New Zealand, our Silver Sheet, Wire, Chenier & Granules range delivers high-quality options ideal for jewellers, manufacturers and students across NZ.
Here’s how to select the right type, when to use each, and practical tips to improve your workflow.
Why do NZ jewellers choose silver?
Silver remains a favourite for Kiwi jewellers because it offers:
- Workability – sterling silver (92.5%) is easy to form, solder and texture.
- Finish – it polishes to a bright reflective lustre and can be oxidised for contrast.
- Value – a cost-effective option for design, learning and production.
- Availability – Warburtons stocks a wide range of sizes and gauges for prompt NZ delivery.
Browse the range: Silver Sheet, Wire, Chenier & Granules
How do you choose the right silver sheet for jewellery making?
Silver Sheet
Best for pendants, backplates, cuffs and bezel bases.
Choose a thickness that balances durability and formability – thicker sheet for cuffs or bangles, thinner for delicate pendants.
Workshop tips
- Anneal after cold-working to relieve stress.
- Keep surfaces clean and fluxed to avoid firescale.
- Apply texture before final shaping for crisp definition.
Recommended product: 925 Sterling Silver Sheet
Which silver wire should I use for my jewellery project?
Silver Wire
Ideal for ring shanks, jump rings, frames and decorative details.
Wire is available in round, square and half-round profiles – select temper (dead-soft or half-hard) to suit your process.
Quick Guide
- Round wire – general purpose.
- Square wire – structural and clean-lined.
- Half-round – perfect for rings and bezels.
Recommended products: Sterling Silver Round Wire | Sterling Silver Square Wire
What is silver chenier and when should you use it?
Silver Chenier (Tube)
Best for settings, hinges and gallery work. Chenier creates lightweight hollow components without sacrificing strength.
Tips
- Support the interior (sand or wire fill) when bending.
- Anneal before forming; cut ends square for tight solder joints.
Recommended product: 925 Sterling Silver Chenier
How do jewellers use silver granules?
Silver Granules
Perfect for casting, granulation and recycling scrap into fresh stock.
Tips
- Use a clean crucible and controlled heat for an even melt.
- Pre-heat the mould and pickle after pouring to remove oxides.
Recommended product: Fine Silver Granules
Which form of silver suits my project best?
|
Project |
Best Form |
Key Consideration |
|
Pendant / Backplate |
Sheet |
Select gauge for strength & texture. |
|
Ring / Bangle |
Wire |
Pick gauge & temper for wearability. |
|
Gallery / Frame |
Chenier |
Choose wall thickness for precision fit. |
|
Casting / Recycling |
Granules |
Efficient melts with minimal waste. |
Practical tips for working with silver
- Anneal regularly to reduce stress.
- Clean before soldering for secure joins.
- Use ventilation during melting.
- Avoid firescale with proper flux and pickling.
- Recycle off-cuts into granules.
- Store silver airtight to prevent tarnish.
Shop the Range
Explore Warburtons’ full collection of Silver Sheet, Wire, Chenier & Granules, available nationwide.
Shop Now at Warburtons NZ
Need custom sizes or bulk orders? Email info@warburtons.co.nz — we’re here to help.