Gemstone Settings is the most in-depth, technical guide to stone setting. Jewelry makers will enjoy an encyclopedic overview, which features an extensive summary of stone-setting and techniques for creating beautiful gemstone jewelry, from basic bezels and prongs to pave, carre, clusters, and numerous others--including cold joins, precious metal clay, settings for fragile stones, and settings that allow the stones to move. You'll also discover detailed information about stones and metals--including their suitability, gorgeous photos and illustrations for visual support, what makes a design wearable and durable, and detailed information on pre-made versus handmade settings. Step by step, learn how to set your most beloved precious, semiprecious, and organic stones with projects that range from elegant diamond masterpieces to earthy pearl or coral everyday favorites.
A complete and practical guide to setting precious and semi-precious stones in any metal, The Jewellery-Maker's Guide to Gemstone Settings is a detailed, technical guide to stone-setting for jewellers and jewellery students. It explores traditional, modern, and experimental approaches to stone-setting, from the purely functional to design-led solutions for securing stones. It takes the reader through the entire process of setting stones from choosing a suitable stone and designing and making the setting to seating and setting the stone. The extensive setting techniques are combined with step-by-step demonstrations, precise diagrams and images of contemporary work from international jewellers. A comprehensive reference section featuring an illustrated glossary makes this book the essential stone-setting resource for both students and professional jewellers. Demonstrations produced using 3D modelling software provide the most up-to-date reflection of current practice and technology and allow explanations of skills and techniques to be presented with expert accuracy. The perfect resource for jewellers of all levels.
Stone setting can often appear mysterious and impossible: an ancient craft used to hold beautiful gems secure in the most elegant of designs. This practical book explains the techniques of the master stone setter in an accessible and encouraging style. Written by Scott McIntyre, it explains the complex world of setting with step-by-step instructions, supported by informative illustrations and excellent examples of finished pieces. It is a manual that shines with inspiration and practical advice. Topics covered include: setting techniques, from bezel, claw and flush, through to single row and multiple pave, then to skilled methods such as channel and microclaw. Advice is given on the options and attributes of each type of setting, as well as ideas for mixing styles and experimenting with setting methods. It is written informally throughout with an emphasis on patience and precision.
"A complete reference for goldsmiths, collectors, and jewellery makers, this book is a comprehensive guide to identifying, buying, using and caring for a dazzling array of jewels and gems." "Discover the origins of gemstones and understand the process of selecting the raw material. Includes practical advice on how to assess the quality, rarity, grade, durability, and cut of precious and semi-precious stones." "Learn how gems are calibrated, using the industry standard measurements of carats and points, and how they can be treated to improve both colour and clarity. A glossary section clearly explains all of the key terminology used." "Illustrations and colour photographs help you to identify the gemstones available to jewellery makers, from amethysts and diamonds to tourmaline and quartz, and demonstrate how they can be used in different designs and settings."--Jacket
Piece dazzling diamond and gorgeous gemstone quilts Add dimension and luminosity to your quilts with gorgeous gemstone piecing! Learn the basics of abstraction and color theory as you piece stunning works of art with gem quilt expert MJ Kinman. After years of perfecting her technique, Kinman explains freezer paper piecing in brilliant detail with jewel quilting ideas to help you express your own creativity. Get helpful advice on fabric selection and quilting patterns to illuminate each cut. A sample gem quilt pattern helps you practice as you follow along step by step. Then find your own muse and bring any gemstone to life in exquisite detail. Just as gems can sparkle and glow in a million different ways, you’ll be inspired by the author’s work and a gallery of student quilts to help you let go of perfection and embrace the chaos of color and light. Shine on! Learn to create freezer-paper patterns for your own gemstone quilts Build skills as you sew a sample diamond quilt top, with step-by-step instructions See a gallery of ground-breaking jewel quilts from the author and her students
From choosing and using to programming, charging and cleansing, Crystals is a modern guide to enhancing your life with these enchanting stones. Often referred to as ‘wisdom keepers’, crystals hold millions of years of the Earth’s history within them. Through emitting steady vibrations, they will help you to become more centered and balanced, creating spaces of Zen around you and your home. Featuring 60 of the most common and interesting crystals, this is a practical guide that will teach you about each stone’s individual properties and how to harness their powers. Discover which crystals are right for you, where best to position them, the perfect pairings and learn how to look after your crystals on a daily basis to deflect any negativity in your life. Whether you use Fluorite to increase your productivity, Smoky Quartz to detoxify or Rose Quartz to create harmony in your relationships, this practical guide will equip you with all you need to harness the power of your crystals. Disconnect with the digital world and reconnect with your spiritual self as Crystals provides a fresh take on crystal healing that helps you to enhance your inner positivity.
Discover the captivating world of jewelry artistry with "Gemstone Metalwork," a comprehensive guide that unlocks the secrets of crafting exquisite gemstone-studded pieces. Whether you're a budding enthusiast or a seasoned artisan, this book offers an in-depth journey through the intricate dance of gemstone and metal, from historical foundations to modern-day innovations. Begin with the essentials in selecting and understanding gemstones, learning how to identify quality stones and choose the perfect gem for your design vision. Delve into the world of metalwork, exploring the properties of metals that influence the form and function of your creations. With step-by-step insights into soldering, texturing, and shaping, you'll acquire the skills needed to bring your unique designs to life. "Gemstone Metalwork" goes beyond the basics, introducing you to advanced stone-setting techniques. Master the art of prong, bezel, and pavé settings, and explore the mesmerizing effects of channel, bar, tension, and invisible settings. Uncover the secrets behind crafting secure, non-traditional settings that push the boundaries of conventional jewelry design. Throughout this engaging guide, you'll find inspiration in detailed case studies and redesign analyses that range from classic motifs to cutting-edge contemporary styles. Learn how to incorporate a client's personal aesthetic into your work, ensuring each piece tells its own story. Gain the confidence to tackle common setbacks with troubleshooting tips and preventative strategies, while enhancing your creativity with both modern technology and traditional tools. Prepare your stunning creations for the marketplace by developing a personal brand and building an online presence, connecting with galleries and collectors around the globe. Finally, expand your skills and future opportunities through continuing education and networking, and stay ahead of trends in this ever-evolving craft. "Gemstone Metalwork" is your ultimate guide to mastering the elegant synergy of gemstones and metal that defines high jewelry artistry. Unlock your potential and create pieces that dazzle and endure.
