Since we at SOLEA epoxy jewelry are often asked what kind of material epoxy resin is that we use for our jewelry and whether it is not toxic to wear something like that, let's get straight to the point: No, epoxy resin is completely harmless when dry and hardened, and is even food safe. Unfortunately, tests for food safety are rarely carried out by manufacturers because the tests for food safety labeling are very expensive.
With this introductory guide to epoxy resin, we want to educate, familiarize and make our customers familiar with the synthetic resin materials that have become indispensable in the construction industry and now also in the jewelry industry. These synthetic resins are created by a chemical reaction between an epoxy and a hardener, which forms a hard, resistant substance. Originally developed in the 1930s, epoxy resins are now used in a wide variety of applications, from art to aviation.
Which epoxy resin is right for my piece of jewelry?
There are several types of epoxy resins that vary in their physical properties and processing methods. The most common types include bisphenol A epoxy resins for general applications, novolak epoxy resins for higher temperatures, and glycidylamine epoxy resins for improved mechanical properties. Selecting the right type of resin depends on specific requirements and applications. It is important to consider the properties of the resin in both the liquid and cured states.
Flowable casting resin
This thin resin is ideal for projects where the resin needs to penetrate deep into the substrate or be poured in thicker layers. Casting resin that is thin and low-viscosity can reach even the finest cracks, fissures or holes in a mold. Its water-like consistency ensures complete penetration of the material. It typically has a longer processing time and cures within 12 to 24 hours. Due to the slower curing reaction, less heat is generated, which allows larger quantities and thicker layers to be processed in one go. This resin is used in the jewelry industry primarily for larger volume jewelry pendants that are over 2cm long or thick.
Areas of application for thin-liquid epoxy resin include:
- Production of decorative objects
- Sealing cracks and holes in wood
- Manufacture of furniture, such as river tables
- Production of molded parts in model making
- Creating resin jewelry
Thick epoxy resin
The highly viscous, thick epoxy resin, which is reminiscent of the consistency of honey, is also known as "laminating resin" or "resin". It is ideal for resin art or for coating surfaces, and can be applied up to a height of around 1cm to 2cm, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.
Areas of application for thick epoxy resin include:
- Resin art: Creation of geodes, crystal art and Petri art as well as epoxy resin refined pictures
- Protective layer of epoxy instead of clear varnish for paintings of various kinds and other fluid painting techniques such as acrylic or oil paintings
- As a final layer to seal all flat surfaces, such as worktops (e.g. kitchen worktops)
- Coatings for garage floors
- Floor coatings in the living area instead of tiles
- High-gloss sealing of surfaces
- Sealing of epoxy resin tables
UV resin
UV resin is a special form of epoxy resin that is already pre-mixed and ready to use. This resin only begins to harden under UV light and remains workable until then. Once exposed to UV light, however, it hardens very quickly - within seconds to minutes. This makes it ideal for small molds or areas where rapid hardening is required, such as repairs or jewelry making. Curing under UV light is completed within 1-2 minutes, and air bubbles can be removed relatively easily.
Important criteria for UV epoxy resin:
- The viscosity should be high or low depending on the application.
- Air bubbles must be able to escape easily, either by themselves or with the help of a Bunsen burner, to ensure optimal curing. A special UV lamp is necessary to achieve the best curing results.
- Odor emissions may be higher compared to traditional epoxy resin.
Epoxy resin manufacturing process
The production of epoxy resin is a complex chemical process that requires careful control of reaction conditions. Starting materials such as epichlorohydrin and bisphenol-A are processed into epoxy resin under strict safety and environmental standards. This process may require adjustments to control specific properties such as viscosity, hardness and curing time.
Advantages of epoxy resin
The advantages of epoxy resins are manifold: high mechanical strength, excellent adhesion, good chemical resistance and a long service life. These properties make epoxy resins a preferred material in many demanding applications in the construction industry but also in the jewelry industry. Epoxy resins are much more scratch-resistant than glass or rhinestones and are 100% break-proof. Unlike various metals, epoxy resin cannot cause allergies because when cured, no chemicals can come into contact with the wearer's skin or cause any adverse reactions.
Innovative developments and future prospects
Research is increasingly focusing on developing environmentally friendly epoxy resins, such as plant-based ones that use fewer harmful chemicals. These innovations promise a more sustainable future in the use of resins. As soon as these are developed and ready for the market, we will also use them in SOLEA epoxy jewelry.
Practical tips for processing epoxy resin in jewellery making
Working successfully with epoxy resin requires knowledge of the correct mixing and curing process. Tips such as avoiding air bubbles and achieving even curing are crucial for achieving optimal results. Not only does following the casting instructions exactly determine the quality of the jewelry produced, but the right tools are also important. A hot air dryer, toothpicks and lighters should not be missing from any epoxy resin workbench if you plan to make breathtaking jewelry.
And yet, until we get somewhat usable results, we have to practice! Practice! Practice!
Last but not least- one of the most important, if not the most important topic:
Protection when working with epoxy resin
Working with epoxy resin requires appropriate protective measures to avoid skin and respiratory irritation. The use of protective gloves, respiratory masks and safety goggles is recommended. Good ventilation of the work area is also essential. We at SOLEA can confidently recommend masks from 3M and good nitrile chemical protection gloves that can be used more often than disposable latex gloves. The environment and your hands will thank you.
All love,
your SOLEA epoxy jewelry team
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