Custom Prong Settings for Unique Stones

This three day workshop involves an interesting concept - the juxtaposition of fine jewelry techniques with "alternative" materials of little or no monetary value such as found stones, pebbles, or other objects. In this case we are building and setting a classic solitaire mounting from wire and sheet, integrating a forged shank with a claw/prong setting and "underbezel". The integral underbezel serves as canvas for detail not visible when worn, known only to the wearer and maker. The stone to be set will be a pebble or rock found on a beach or other unassuming place. Students will fabricate one ring such as the type shown in the photo.

Concepts and techniques taught include integrating a setting, underbezel, and shank into one cohesive construction; fabricating a secure setting, the underbezel as a design element, forging, piercing, soldering, prefinishing, setting an irregular “cabochon” stone, and finishing techniques.