Pewter is a tin-based alloy, a mix of metals that contains at least 51% tin.  It is the fourth most precious metal in the world behind platinum, gold and silver.  The definition of modern fine pewter or Britannia metal (as defined by Sam, who is a metallurgist) is an alloy that contains a mixture of tin in the range of 90-95% and contains no lead.

Our buckles use an alloy that contains 94% tin and the rest being a variety of metals, including antimony, copper and bismuth.  This formulation gives the castings a perfect combination of fine detail and smooth finishes.  The Federal Trade Commission uses a level of at least 900 parts per thousand of tin as its truth in advertising standard for pewter.

The Egyptians were known to produce items out of pure tin as early as 3700 BC.  The earliest known use of a pewter alloy was found in China over 2000 years ago.  The Romans were known to use pewter for making seals and their occupation of Britain set the stage for the development of pewter craftsmen during the Middle Ages.  The export of pewter by the English was second only to wool during this period.

It was the mass production of porcelain tableware during the 18th century that led to the decline of pewter as the primary material used for tableware.  As the quantity of pewter products declined, the quality in craftsmanship began to increase.  Pewter remains the metal of choice for modern metal sculptors.

Why is pewter so prized?  First is its lasting value.  Pewter will not tarnish, rust or deteriorate in any manner.  Many items produced during the middle Ages can be found in museums today.  Second is that it is a very easy medium to work with.  With a low melting point, pewter can be cast utilizing centrifugal technology and poured directly into rubber molds. Nobel metals (silver, gold and platinum) and bronze require a wax model which is placed in a round cylinder (flask), and covered (coated) with a refractory (Kerr® Laboratories is the World's largest manufacturer of these investment materials) which have to be heated in ovens until the wax runs out of the mold and then pouring the metal into the vacant mold creating the metal casting.  This procedure is commonly referred to as Lost Wax Casting.  Either technology allows the craftsman to produce works of art from jewelry, to buckles, to statues with exceptional detail.

Artisans train for many years, and with over three decades in the jewelry trade, Sam Lax® is considered by his peers as a Master Jeweler, Engraver and Caster as evidenced by his numerous award-winning designs.  Sam may be easily reached at 1+818-674-6112 for consultation regarding the design and manufacturing of either exclusive or one-of-a-kind designs for you or your company.