Buying Guides
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Buying Guides
What Is A Cabochon Cut Gemstone?
Read PostAs you begin your journey as a jewellery maker, it can be hard to get around the various gemstone cuts, including the various techniques and endless terminology. To help you get to grips with the world of jewellery making, we’ve pulled together a guide on cabochon cut gemstones. So what is a cabochon gemstone? Find […]
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Buying Guides
Cutting Metal With Dremel 3000 Rotary Tools
Read PostAre you looking for a rotary tool that delivers across all aspects of your jewellery making? Whether it’s cutting metal, engraving or polishing, the Dremel 3000 Rotary Tool is a handy piece of equipment that all jewellery makers should invest in for their workshop. Our guide below talks you through cutting metal with a Dremel […]
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Buying Guides
Using a Barrelling Machine with Metal, Stones and Glass
Read PostIn this guide, learn all about the different compounds and shots that can be used with barrelling machines What can I use my barrelling machine for? You can use your barrelling machine to: Polish metal Grinding and de-burring metal Applying a matt finish Polishing stones and glass For each type of finish, you will need […]
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Buying Guides
Professional Tools Focus: Fretz
Read PostFretz Design is an American company started in 1970, as a jewellery venture, by husband and wife team Marian and Bill Fretz. Both were originally involved in different areas of the industry, and combined their collective skills to start a small specialist company which initially focussed on the production of bespoke pieces. As time went […]
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Buying Guides
Top Jewellery Making Pliers For Beginners & How To Use Them
Read PostAs a beginner jewellery maker you may feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of tools and supplies available to you. Where do you start? And do you really need it all? Before you find your signature jewellery making style and the materials you like to use the most, you may only want to invest in […]
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Buying Guides
Understanding the Different Types of Chain
Read PostChains aren’t just for holding pendants — they are an essential component in jewellery design that contribute to the look, movement, and durability of a piece. From fine necklace chains to bold standalone styles, knowing your options helps you choose the best one for your project. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular […]
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Buying Guides
How to Use Different Types of Burrs
Read PostThis is the final part of our guide to burrs, where we will cover some of the shapes and profiles which don’t fall directly into the stone setting category. It is worth noting however, that the way in which burrs are used is completely open to your own interpretation, so don’t feel restricted in any […]
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Buying Guides
How to Choose the Right Burr for Your Jewellery Design
Read PostChoosing a burr from the huge selection available is no easy task. There are shapes, sizes and materials to think about, as well as considering the purpose and metal best suited for each design. It’s not surprising that many customers are confused about burrs, and resort to decisions based on price, availability or even worse, […]
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Buying Guides
Different Types Of Jewellery Clasps
Read PostWhen crafting or purchasing jewellery, the clasp is more than just a functional component, it’s a crucial element that ensures security, complements the design, and enhances the overall aesthetic. With a myriad of clasp types available, selecting the right one can elevate your piece from ordinary to extraordinary. Bolt Ring Clasp A classic choice, the […]
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Buying Guides
How to Use Guardian Ear Fittings
Read PostWhat are Guardian Ear Fittings? Guardian ear fittings are ideal if you are looking for secure and easy to use earring findings for your jewellery designs. Available in 2 sizes and 5 different alloys, Guardian ear fittings feature a double grooved post for a positive lock, and ear backs that are removed by applying firm […]
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Buying Guides
Material Focus: Copper
Read PostCopper tones have been enjoying enormous popularity for some time now in fashion, accessories and interiors, but in the run up to Christmas how can it compete with the more traditional colour schemes of silver and gold? The overwhelming draw of copper is its intense warmth, and with temperatures dropping below zero outside, warmth is […]
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Buying Guides
How Does An Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaner Work?
Read PostHave some old jewellery that needs a bit of TLC? By using an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner, your designs will be sparkling in minutes – perfect for giving a bit of shine to some old favourites. But how does an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner work? And are ultrasonic cleaners worth it? Find out everything you need to […]