Setting stones in jewelry have been practiced since early times, and though methods have changed over the years, the goal has always been the same: setting precious gemstones in a way that showcases their beauty without damaging them. While there are many different ways to set wholesale gemstones, this article focuses on common jewelry settings most often used by jewelry-making hobbyists and professionals alike. The stones we’ll discuss include some of the most popular gemstones in the world including diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds!
The different types of gemstone settings
Gemstone settings come in many different shapes and sizes. They can be placed on a necklace, earrings, or bracelet and all have their own purpose. The most popular setting is the bezel setting where the stone is mounted into an open metal frame that has been closed with solder onto the back of the gemstone. Bezel settings are more secure than other types of settings because they hold the gemstone securely against the metal frame which would otherwise cause it to loosen over time and fall out of place.
The Tools You Need
To be able to set loose gemstones in your jewelry, you need three tools: the bezel mandrel, the jeweler's hammer, and the rivet. Your mandrel should come with your ring setting tool kit. The bezel mandrel has an opening for setting stones on the inside of a metal band. Make sure that you use flat-nosed pliers to grip and adjust the rings on it. It is also helpful to have some needle files on hand as well. With all these tools, you can make some really beautiful pieces of jewelry with gemstone accents!
The step-by-step guide
If you're new to setting precious gemstones in jewelry settings, follow this step-by-step guide:
- Place the stone on top of the prong and match the height of the stone with the height of the prongs. 2. Line up one side of the setting with one side of your stone and make sure that one of its sides is touching the rough edge while keeping an equal distance from all four corners.
- Make sure there is enough room for the prongs around your stone by holding it at least a millimeter or two away from it.
- Use needle nose pliers to bend each corner over until they touch the backside of the bezel or frame opening just under where they meet at each point.
Tips and tricks
-Start by cleaning the bezel and stones with soap and water and dry them completely. -Apply epoxy glue generously to the inside of the bezel and press it firmly against the stone, making sure that the edges are fully covered. -Using clamps or a vise, hold the setting tightly together for at least 10 minutes (or until you are certain that it has dried). -Once the epoxy glue has hardened, open up the clasp on your jump ring and attach it to one side of the setting.
-Open up the other side of your jump ring and insert it into the opposite side of your bezel setting.
-Once both rings are securely connected, use a pair of pliers to tighten them into place while being careful not to twist or bend either ring too much.
Conclusion
Setting stones is not as complicated as it may seem. The more you do it the better you will become at getting the stone in just the right place, with just the right amount of space for light to pass through. That said, there are some general rules that can make your work easier:
- Make sure your fingers and thumb are clean before handling any stones. Any dirt or oils on your hands will transfer onto the surface of the stone and leave a residue that will be difficult to remove without damaging it.