I’ve partnered with @newstoneagecabochons to share a few tips for setting softer stones, using a piece of their stunning hard carved amber. Follow them to shop their huge variety of beautiful, responsibly sourced cabochons. Their Instagram sales are Mon-Thurs 1PM PST.
Tip 1️⃣: One of the challenges of setting a softer stone can be scratching or breaking the stone in the setting process, to make the setting process easier consider using a thinner gauge bezel 26-30g (.31-.46mm) or fine silver bezel (also on the thinner side). These options will be easier to push down but will still hold the stone secure. Fine silver isn’t a great choice for a bezel that will get a lot of wear so be mindful of that.
Tip 2️⃣: Make sure your bezel is a perfect fit both around the stone and the height of the bezel. A great fit will also help the setting process be as smooth as possible.
Tip 3️⃣: Consider a plastic, brass or agate pusher/burnisher for setting your stone. These are great options regardless but particularly on softer stones they are less likely to scratch or damage your gorgeous stone. They are also less likely to mar your bezel on accident.
Tip 4️⃣: Take your time, push the bezel down gradually starting with corners (if any) and then going north, south, east, west.
I really hope you found this post helpful. It was a pleasure working with this gorgeous stone from @newstoneagecabochons huge thanks to them for supporting Metalsmith Society and working with me to create educational content. They truly source their stones with care, from their website: “For many of the stones we sell, including our amber, opals, obsidian, fossilized sand dollars, jaspers and agates we have connections to the mines where they are sourced. In several cases we have visited the mines where they originate. That being said, if you have specific questions about mining practices for any particular stone, let us know and we can share the information we have about whichever material you are interested in.” #sponsored #cabochons #designer #cabochons
