Prong-Setting Cabochons

Soldering – Stone-Setting

Learn how to use prongs to set a cabochon or other flat-backed stone.  Bezel cups are great, but they can be difficult if your working with a stone that has a unique or angular shape to the edge.  As long as the stone is flat on the back and fairly durable, setting it with prongs could be your answer.  Using a prong setting also allows you to use a fun texture on the silver backing.  The style of your prongs can also vary.  You can craft refined smooth prongs that are sleekly shaped to conform to the silhouette of your stone, or you can melt the ends into balls and go for an organic/rustic feel.  This choice is usually decided based on the look or refinement of the stone.  Either way, this class will show you how to achieve a setting that will fit well and securely hold your stone.
 
Please note: You may not actually set your stone in this class.  You’ll want to clean/refine the setting to it’s final glory before securing the stone.  You will have instruction on the process so you can do it at home or you can join us for an Open Session class if you feel more comfortable having guidance/supervision.
 
 

Where?

Desert Jewel Studio, 26839 N 44th St, Cave Creek, AZ 85331. You will receive directions upon registering for class.

When?

This class is not on the schedule at this time.  If you are interested in taking it, e-mail jen@jewelryclasseswithjen.com with your interest and availability.

How do I sign up?

Class will be $65/person. E-mail jen@jewelryclasseswithjen.com or call Jen at (480)635-2402 to register any time from noon to 10pm.

What will I need to bring to class

You will need to bring a cabochon or other flat-backed somewhat durable stone to work with.  The thickness of the sheet used for backing your stone depends on how you plan to use the setting as well as the size of your stone.  Earrings are typically smaller and you want to keep them as light as possible, so they would use 24ga sheet whereas a pendant would likely be 20 or 22ga sheet. (Please take note that the butane torch limits the size of the project we can tackle.  Plan to use 22ga if your stone is larger than a quarter.)  You will need a piece of sheet that is at least 1/4″ larger than your stone in both width and length.  The prongs also can vary depending on the stone, but in this class we will use 16ga wire.  You’ll need approximately 2″ in length, depending on the height of your stone/how long your prongs need to be.  Depending on how you plan to use your piece, you will need appropriate jump rings and/or findings to assemble it.

Tools:

  • Jeweler’s saw, bench pin, and 3/0 blades to cut your shape if you want it customized (can be done after class)
  • Flush cutters
  • Chain nose pliers
  • Flat nose pliers
  • Steel block/ silencing pad (optional for texturing)
  • Texturing hammer(s) (optional for texturing)
  • Forming hammer (plastic/nylon or rawhide)
  • File(s) – preferably a #4 cut half-round
  • Needle files  (for refining your prongs if desired)
  • Sharpie marker (ultra fine tip)
  • 3M sanding sponges/ slurry coated polishing cloths
  • bezel pusher (seasoned)
  • burnishing tool
  • 1.5mm hole punch (for connection holes)
  • 2.5mm round bur fitted in a pin vise (for connection holes)
  • twin cut cup burs for the gauge of your prongs if you are refining them
  • Silicone lubricant
  • Magnifying glasses– most people don’t think they need them until they are faced with seeing the detail of jewelry close-up.
  • Covered water or other refreshing beverage
  • Snacks are always welcome as well. 🙂

The following tools will be supplied in class for your use:

  • Basic soldering set-up
  • medium silver solder
  • 3+ sets of cross lock tweezers
  • Large binder clips (2)
  • Paste flux/ brush
  • Sanding discs/ AdvantEdge silicone wheels (white/black), split mandrel and emery strips
  • flex shaft
  • center punch
  • drill bit: #55
  • Wood block
  • Poster putty
  • potatoes
 

The majority of the above items are available locally at C&D Silver, SJ Jewelry Supply, Lonnie’s Jewelry Supply or other on-line jewelry supply sources. If you have any difficulty or questions about obtaining any of these items, please contact Jen to inquire about your options.