First claw settings...

[enigma]

So, would you say not bad for a first attempt ? or must try harder? lol
I found these sooooooo hard having only worked with bought claw settings before.
The customer wanted just the one silver support rather than the normal two as she didn't want them too chunky.
Any tips appreciated as I have some more to make for the same customer…

[Dennis]

Very pretty Sarah and lots of hard work.
My only comment would be that to my eye the claws look a little chunky for the size of the stones, but you could file them lightly from the out side.
You would end up with inside out D-shaped wire, or, if you prefer, use slightly thinner round wire next time.
Kind regards, Dennis.

[vernon]

They are lovely, but I would personally, like Dennis, make them smaller and not so long so covering less of the stones. It is amazing how short you can make claws and still hold the stones securely. As long as they just are higher than the table.

[enigma]

Thanks Dennis and Vernon
I used 0.8mm wire and even that felt quite flimsy to work with but I agree the claws look quite chunky finished.

[Nick martin]

I also think they look tremendous. Great effort!

I've yet to fully produce anything using my own claw settings but intend to do so soon. Hard to judge properly from the photos I suppose, but I'd say use thinner gauge wire also, although they do look very strong which isnt a bad thing at all!

Nick

[enigma]

Thanks Nick, only just seen your comment for some reason.
I made the next pair in gold,


got to start a 3rd pair next week for the same lady- opals and diamonds in rose gold

[Gemsetterchris]

Ok, so you managed get the stones held in with the claws & if they are level, secure & undamaged then that's great.
The next step is to refine things abit.

You really need to make sure the claws are uniformly spaced. The "V" claws you need to get abit more even as they look abit different & you want each side to match.
Not a bad effort, but now It's the details that need paying attention to.

[enigma]

Thanks Chris, and yes, I really struggled with the Vs :/

[metalsmith]

Thanks Chris, and yes, I really struggled with the Vs :/

I'm at around the same stage as yourself with just a few of my own claws set so can't offer too much. My only tip would be to photograph with macro from different angles then be your own worst critic (but keep within reason!)

[enigma]

Thanks metalsmith, I guess its the 'within reason' bit where it gets complicated lol