Free form nugget and method of casting
OwnerDonald Homer Parsonsinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A free-form metal casting that simulates a natural metal nugget, and method of casting the same. Molten metal is poured into a recess in an upper surface of a bed of rock salt. While still molten, portions of the metal variously penetrate downward through the rock salt, thereby forming, as the metal cools, a unique casting having a random pattern of stalagmite extensions. The surfaces of the casting have a pitted, grainy texture impressed by the rock salt, which simulates the appearance of naturally occurring precious metal nuggets. Surface metal oxides are removed from the casting by electrofinishing. Cast nuggets of copper, brass and bronze are preferably electroplated with gold or silver. After polishing, the cast nuggets are suitable for use in jewelry and decorative art objects.
Claims17
A method for casting free-form metal nuggets comprising:
- a. placing rock salt inside an open cannister;
- b. forming a depression in an upper surface of the rock salt;
- c. pouring molten metal into the depression;
- d. permitting the metal to cool to form a solid metal nugget;
- e. removing the nugget from the cannister;
- and
- f. washing the rock salt away from the surface of the nugget.
A free-form metal nugget manufactured by placing rock salt inside an open cannister, forming a depression in an upper surface of the rock salt, pouring molten metal into the depression, permitting the metal to cool to form a solid metal nugget, removing the nugget from the cannister, and washing the rock salt away from the surface of the nugget.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.