Stonesetting with Brad Simon

Lap Tray

Before beginning to set any stone, remove all tools from your lap tray.  Even a diamond can be chipped it if hits a hard steel tool when dropped.

  ~Brad

Jewelers Tools,Stonesetting,Gemstone Setter

Channel Set Wedding Bands

A ring roller designed to enlarge rings can be used to tighten stones in a channel set wedding band.  Select a half-round die larger than the width of the band; making certain the die will contact the tops of the channel without hitting the stones.  Apply gentle pressure and roll across the entire channel, compressing the metal down tight onto the stones.  Then, remove the ring and check the stones.  Repeat as necessary.  DO NOT Over Tighten The Die Against The Ring.  This process will leave the channel smooth and even.

  ~Brad

Channel Set Diamonds,Jewelry Tools,Bench Jeweler

Flush Setting

Do not attempt to tighten a flush set stone by hammering on the metal surface, forcing the metal over the stone.  This causes a dip in the surface surrounding the stone, resulting in an unsatisfactory appearance.  If you use a hammer and punch (or hammer handpiece on your flex-shaft) be certain to hold the punch at a 45 degree angle to the metal surface and tap lightly ONLY on the edge of the metal, until it is worked down over the stone.

To secure a Flush Set stone you only need to burnish the top edge of the metal down onto the stone.

   ~Brad

Flush Setting Diamonds,Jewelers Tools,Stone Setter

Channel Setting

When channel setting diamonds, color the inside of the channel with a black felt tip marker prior to setting.  The diamonds will stand out against this background making it easier to keep the spacing uniform.  When finished setting, dip the jewelry in alcohol to remove the ink. 

  ~Brad

Stonesetting,Channel Setting Diamonds,Bench Jeweler