MS200 - Intermediate Techniques & Stone Setting

Create jewellery settings from raw materials to manufacture secure, multi-pronged settings for cabochon gems of any shape or size. Starting with round wire, roll it evenly flat and shape it to precisely fit the contour of the gem. With the leftover wire rolled to ½ round create the bail and prongs. Solder all parts onto the frame symmetrically, polish to a high shine before setting the gem with the new tools provided in the kit.

Explore methods for transforming round wire into specialized wire profiles that suit unique design requirements for prongs and bails and discover roll printing a technique where textured materials - such as fabric, paper, or organic items - are passed through a rolling mill with sheet metal to imprint patterns adding texture and enhancing contrast. These skills allow jewellers to create bespoke components and unique designs that elevate the originality of their work.

Master techniques for joining metal parts without heat, enabling the creation of movable or mixed-material designs. These approaches are essential for complex jewellery pieces where soldering is impractical. Brass and copper rivets and eyelets are provided in various lengths and wire is used to produce invisible connections which give the illusion of a soldered join.

Understand how to integrate commercial components into custom designs while maintaining craftsmanship quality. This knowledge helps jewellers save time without compromising on durability or aesthetics and gives a competitive edge in today’s challenging market. By learning to work with standard components, jewellers can offer clients faster turnaround times and cost-effective solutions without sacrificing originality or value.

Learn to twist, shape, and solder delicate wires to form intricate ornamental patterns. Filigree work demands patience and precision, making it a hallmark of advanced jewellery artistry. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal of a piece but also reflects the jeweller’s mastery of fine craftsmanship and historical design traditions.

Learn about the benefits of Argentium when using this technique. Discover how to create and fuse tiny metal spheres for decorative effects that enhance jewellery designs. Consistency in size and placement is key to achieving professional-quality granulation. Mastering granulation requires precise heat control and meticulous surface preparation, as even minor errors can prevent proper fusing.