Which zone of a flame does a goldsmith use for melting gold and silver and why?

A goldsmith typically utilizes the innermost part of a flame, known as the “reducing zone” or “inner cone,” for melting gold and silver due to specific advantages:

1. High Temperature: The inner cone boasts the highest temperatures within the flame structure, crucial for melting metals like gold and silver with their high melting points.

2. Reducing Atmosphere: This zone maintains a lower oxygen concentration, creating an oxygen-deficient environment. This prevents oxidation or tarnishing of metals while melting, preserving their purity and luster.

3. Controlled Conditions: For precision in metalwork, goldsmiths need to control temperature and oxidation levels meticulously. The reducing zone’s high temperature and low oxygen environment allow for precise melting without compromising the metals’ integrity.

By harnessing the reducing zone of the flame, goldsmiths ensure the attainment of requisite high temperatures for melting gold and silver while safeguarding their purity, preventing oxidation or tarnishing, and enabling meticulous craftsmanship in creating jewelry or other precious metal articles.