Module 1 is a 5-day (8am – 5pm) course. It is the first of two modules, the second being An Introduction To Advanced Gemstone Setting Techniques, which are separate 5-day courses.

In this course the student is introduced to the fundamentals of securing gemstones and will be taught the 5/6 most elementary methods of setting gems.

The work is done in sterling silver and suitable semi-precious gemstones are used in the exercises.

Because the emphasis is on manufacturing of the ‘setting’ and the actual setting techniques, rather than spending unnecessary time fabricating the jewellery piece itself, the student may be presented in some instances with a pre-prepared piece into which the setting is done.

The methods covered in this module are:
* Bezel setting
* Gypsy / rub-around setting
* Prong/ claw setting
* Bead setting
* Tension setting
* Pearl setting (optional extra – time permitting)

Please note: The images shown here merely serve as examples of jewellery pieces that have the type of setting discussed so that you, as a student, can identify what the aim is and are not necessarily the items which will be made on the course.

1. Bezel

Demonstration of cabochon stone: Oval.

Discussion and examples shown of facetted stones: i) Round; ii) Cushion; iii) Octagon; iv) Marquise.

Exercise: Setting of an oval, facetted stone in a pendant/ring.

2. Rub-around

Demonstration: i) Oval, facetted stone gypsy set in ring with round, facetted stones set with rub-around technique on sides.

Exercises: i) Oval, facetted stone gypsy set in ring; ii) Small, round stones set into a band using rub-around setting.

3. Prong/Claw

Demonstrations: i) Round wire collet-making and setting of stone; ii) Sawn, sheet metal collet; iii) Setting of a square stone in a square collet.

Exercise: 2 x round wire collet-making and setting of stones for earring studs.

4. Bead

Demonstration: Preparation of bead setting and setting of stone with reference to pavé type setting.

Exercise: 3 cz’s bead set into fine silver, made into a pendant.

5. Tension

Demonstration: Making of the shank, setting the stone.

Exercise: Manufacture of ring, setting of a round, facetted stone.

6. Pearl

Demonstration: Manufacture of post with screw thread and cup and setting of pearl.

Exercise: Manufacture of pearl-cup and post into an existing sterling silver pendant form. Cementing the pearl.