Replica nuggets

[AusFX]

I've always been curious about the replica nuggets on display in museums and stores and was wondering if anyone knew a bit more about them.
Who makes them?
How did they re-create the big ones from the old timers that were melted down as soon as they found them? Does someone sift over photographs and sculpt a master to mould?

Also what are they made of? Resin and metal powder?

 

[dryhorrors]

here ya go buddy
http://www.powerhousemuseum.com/collection/database/?irn=124
hope this helps answer some of your questions

 

[loamer]

Melbourne-based Dean Smith makes them.

 

[loamer]

Melbourne-based Dean Smith makes them. He made the Welcome Stranger, Hand of Faith (sold for $1,100 at a PMAV auction) to name a few. He did a presentation at last years Gold bash at Laanecoorie Vic (a big fundraising event and gold prospecting long weekend in the Vic Golden Triangle area that a few of this forum members attend each year). Clever bloke. See http://www.environmentalcreations.com.au/#/gold-nugget-replicating/4556191920

Example of the work

 

[AusFX]

Very interesting, I would have thought a plaster replica would have been too fragile as far as the Welcome stranger is concerned. Then again they didnt have resins when that model was made.
I might contact Dean Smith and as him what materials he uses, purely to satisfy my own curiosity. The silicon he's using in the pictures is pinkysil and ultrasil from Barnes, I can tell that much. But I would assume he would use resin for the castings.

Thanks guys!