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Tube-setting with Teardrop Frame

(registration instructions below)

Learn to make this great component featuring a tube-set faceted 5mm stone.  You can use it with a bail as shown here to make a delicate pendant, or make 2 and suspend them from earwires as a great pair of earrings.  This is a great beginner stone setting project that utilizes previously learned wire-working and soldering skills.  We will use a pre-fabricated setting and I will show you how to customize the fit and set your stone with ease.

Discipline:  Wire-working

Working with precious/semi-precious wire to form jewelry components.

Level:  Intermediate (**)

This link is considered intermediate because of the heavy weight of the wire.  The use of proper positioning aids in the ability to form the wire.  This project also introduces drilling holes in forged wire.

Secondary Discipline:  Soldering

The use of an alloy (solder) to create a join using the heat of a torch.

Level:  Intermediate (**)

Positioning is key to solder this join, but with a great set-up we can conquer the join with ease.

Tertiary Discipline:  Stone-setting

Capturing a stone with precious metals.

Level:  Beginner (*)

Tube setting a round faceted stone is a great beginner fundamental to incorporate bling into your jewelry.

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?

Project Materials for the Pendant Shown:

  • (1) 1.75″ lengths of 14ga wire (allow a bit extra for flush cutting)
  • (1) 5mm tube setting
  • (1) 5mm faceted stone (mohs hardness of 7 or higher please)
  • (1) Jen’s soldered bail
  • (1) 16ga 4/32″ID jump ring

Project Materials for Earrings:

  • (2) 1.75″ lengths of 14ga wire (allow a bit extra for flush cutting)
  • (2) 5mm tube setting
  • (2) 5mm faceted stone (mohs hardness of 7 or higher please)
  • (1) pair of leverback earwires
  • (2) 18ga 4/32″ID jump ring

 

I will have kits and stones available for sale in class.  Price varies depending on the stone.

Tools:

  • Jewelry grade file(s) – (needle files are fine for this)
  • Flush cutter – large one preferred
  • Sharpie marker (ultra fine point)
  • Ruler
  • Chain-nose jewelry pliers
  • Flat-nose jewelry pliers
  • Step pliers (Beadsmith # PL48) –Optional
  • Wrap and Tap pliers (Wire Loopers – Beadsmith # PL46 or Eurotool equivalent)
  • Bail making pliers (Beadsmith # PL42 or equivalent)
  • Embossing hammer
  • Steel block and silencing pad
  • Burnishing tool
  • Sanding sponges/Slurry coated polishing cloths
  • 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 will be provided in class, but bring your own if you wish:

  • #52 twist drill and Flex shaft or drill press or a 1.5mm hole punch
  • Center punch or scribe
  • Pin vise fitted with a 2.5 or 3mm ball bur and a 5mm stone setting bur
  • Bur life or other lubricant
  • Basic soldering set-up
  • Stone setting tool
  • Mallet
  • Bamboo skewer

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.