Almost done: Putting the pieces together
When all of the silver pieces are finished, it’s time to solder them together. Large silver jewels, like a silver headdress with 203 different pieces, can take days to complete.
After soldering, artisans will wash the jewelry in phosphoric acid to remove any stains and oxidation.
These techniques are only passed down from father to son in Miao families. Many boys start learning how to make silver jewelry as early as 12 or 13 years old. It takes at least 7 to 8 years to learn all of the required skills, and a lifetime to master them.
The Miao silver jewelry techniques are so unique, it is almost impossible for anybody to duplicate their jewels. In 2006, their handmade silver jewels were listed as one of the Intangible Cultural Heritages of China.
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