Forging is the process of altering metal from its original shape with hammers, metal working tools and heat. Once forged, the metal retains its new shape. Blacksmiths for example use forging to create things like horse shoes and other tools.
Forging precious metal is useful process in jewelry design. It can be used to create subtle and Interesting change of plain on a piece of jewley.
I’ve had some fun creating a forged sterling silver ring from some round sterling wire. The front opened ends of this sterling silver ring are somewhat flaired and flattened with hammers while the back of the ring shank is round. It’s an interesting and fun variation on a round ring band.