Todays effort, i have found square stones are hard to set.

[sam.k]

Well I tend to only use hard solder but have medium and easy to hand so I'm sure I could pull it off.
I think if I where to file a small semi circle into the gallery next to each prong I could set the new prongs a little closer in to get a really snug fit.
I have a cunning plan!

[sam.k]

ok so I ended up cutting the previous setting off and starting again, a couple of issues I came up with where -
- the stone didn't like being gripped by the corners
- the way I had attached the setting to the shank was not very strong ie it flexed under a bit of force.

I decided to redesign slightly to fix these problems. the stone would be gripped on the sides and I would anchor the shank in a stronger way, sadly the ring when mocked up look dreadful so I had a wiggle around, tried a few other things and in the end decided on this design. without blowing my own trumpet I think I nailed the sucker. after being quite disappointed with the previous effort not sitting in the mount straight this version has really made me happy.

[jayneharrison]

It's beautiful! Your determination to improve and succeed is really inspiring - well done Sam.

[josef1]

Looks great well done

[metalsmith]

Great result ... the offset shank is in vogue, so I think you're onto a winner.

[enigma]

Yes looks great! really like the offset shank too.

[Gemsetterchris]

Some jobs are abit flimsy & you`ll need to pack them out with some setting cement, thermo-loc or something similar.
You`ll also need some for holding pendants & earrings.

[sam.k]

May I ask your opinion on the finished piece Chris? I find your input to be very constructive.

[Gemsetterchris]

Make a pusher that fits the shape of the outside of the claw to help retain it`s shape.


Use a cup bur for round wire claws (or file ect)..notice the claw remains in a straight line & isn`t bent over the stone at an angle much?


Excuse the pic as it`s very old & non digital..but you should see that it looks better seeing just a round ball from above.


Hope that answers a few things.
Well done for figuring out a design that worked, it`s just a case of refining your details now.

Top pictures are from diamond setting by Wooding...hope he doesn`t mind! It`s abit old fashioned nowadays but still helpful.

[sam.k]

Woohoo pitchers! Cheers chris.