Laser welding improves overall shop proficiency while increasing quality for repair, reconstruction and jewelry manufacturing. Read the rest of this entry »

Channel setting anniversary bands appears complicated. However, carefully following this procedure will simplify the process and yield superior results. We urge you to know the millimeter size of the stones you intend to set before you order your ring. Read the rest of this entry »

Knowing the ins and outs of findings demonstrates another aspect of quality in your shop

A ll of us – bench jewelers and sales professionals alike – work hard to earn the respect and loyalty of our customers. It’s called setting ourselves apart and establishing the place where people want to shop. Read the rest of this entry »

Many rings incorporate yellow and white gold elements to produce a rich contrast of warm and cool colors. But when both colors are incorporated into the same shank, the bench jeweler who sizes the ring faces a challenge. To size up a two-tone ring, the jeweler must: Read the rest of this entry »

Beginner to intermediate glass bead making project

In the summer of 1978 at 32 years old with 3 children and one on the way, I knew my future included a nursing career and a larger house with a big yard. Read the rest of this entry »

Numerous skilled lapidaries have made gemstone butterflies. I remember George Gali’s bright gem butterflies featured at his many show booths, each delicately perched on an attractive mineral base. I also recall the butterfly pins and pendants of Ray Karr. I once saw a collection of gem butterflies at a California show that looked so real that I wondered how the artists ever got the case closed. Read the rest of this entry »

This project requires some knowledge of the casting process and also access to casting equipment. I wouldn’t recommend going to the expense of buying all the equipment until you know this is a process you enjoy and want to continue to explore.
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Sitting at your bench one day, you reach for the next repair envelope, examine the contents and read the instructions. The envelope says, Name: Mrs. JB Tipton. Article: Lady’s yellow ring marked “14k” w/3 clear brilliants, approx. 3.2mm.
Tips on all prongs are worn. Size 5 1/2. Instructions: Retip all with solder.” Read the rest of this entry »

Intermediate project.
Editor’s note: Kate Drew-Wilkinson is featured on page 38 of the December 2000 LJ; see “Sense of Drama.”

Some of you may have seen my tide pool beads made with Spectrum flat glass remnants. The beads are layered with many kinds of latticcino - essentially, rods of different colors Read the rest of this entry »

Beginner-to-Intermediate project.

This ring was always tight on Mrs. Ghirardelli’s finger. But as she was getting ready for a party the other evening, she could barely squeeze it over her knuckle. And once it was on her finger, she noticed that the ring pinched her skin like a tight corset. Read the rest of this entry »