Why am I getting black in the solder

Q:When I solder the 60/40 solder it is getting black pieces in the silver and I want to keep it a bright silver. Does the amount or type of flux matter with this?

Our A: Hello, you asked about black specs in the solder. This could be a result of a couple things to check.

1. Make sure you clean off your solder iron with a damp sponge frequently.

2. The solder iron may be too hot

3. I found I don't get the specs when I use 50/50 solder- you might give it a try.

4. After you have soldered, cleaned and wax - when you buff firmly to give a shine to the solder and the glass most of the black specs will come off. You can also add a patina of copper or black.

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