Q: Casting Palladium ?

Hello,

I have a couple who would like to consider cast palladium wedding rings
instead
of cast platinum. They are primarily attracted to the unusualness of the metal
and I
am sure the lower price and density are a nice bonus.

I have not worked with palladium before, and I have a few questions I
hoped
some more experienced jewelers could answer. My intention is to cast matching
bands
with undercut grooves for inlaying silver 0.020" wire. There will be no
soldering or
heating of the bands once they are cast. The finish will initially be mirror,
but the
couple knows that scratches will build up and the rings will eventually become
mat (and
show the silver contrast more.)

1) From what I can find on the web, palladium seems to have similar
working
properties to platinum. Are there any drawbacks or pitfalls while working with
palladium that make it less desirable for the jeweler?

2) Are there any annoying characteristics of palladium which makes it
less
desirable for the wearer?

3) Any other advice, tips etc?

Thanks,
-Chris.

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