Stone Setting Tools | Tools for Jewelry

Stonesetting is the process where gemstones are securely attached to jewelry. There are thousands of stonesetting styles but the following five are the most fundamental styles.

Bezel setting

This is one of the first known techniques of stone setting. Bezel setting is well suited for faceted or cabochon stones.

Prone setting

This is a common and simple stonesetting technique where several small wires, called prongs, are arranged in a specific size and shape to hold the gemstone and stay fixed to the base.

There are many variations to a prong setting – some use two prongs while some use 24 or even more. This technique offers many variations on areas like the size, decoration, shape of the prongs, and how they will be embedded in the jewelry. However, regardless of the final design, the underlying method remains the same.

Channel setting

In this stonesetting method, gemstones are suspended between bars of metal. These bars are often referred to as channels. As with prone setting, there are many variations to it.

Bead setting

This setting refers to the technique where gravers are used to set the stone into the metal.

Burnish setting

Also known as flush setting, it is very similar to the previous technique but in this case, a burnishing tool is used to push the metal into completely surrounding the gemstone.

The Importance of a Stone Setting Tool

A stone setting tool is one of the more vital tools utilized in the creation of fine jewelry. A good stonesetting job will present a gemstone in a manner that dramatizes the overall effect of the jewelry while bringing out the best in the gemstone.

Among the first decisions that should be taken when setting a stone is deciding if the stone will be a side component that enhances the overall look or if it will take center stage in the jewelry piece. Another decision with using a stone setting tool is deciding which technique to use and how to set the gemstone in the most unobtrusive manner.

It is more than just appearances that need to be considered when operating a stone setting tool. A key objective of a stone setting tool is to secure the gem safely.

When using a stone setting tool, measures must be taken to maximize durability as well. One just needs to glance at engagement jewelry that feature stilted fine wire prongs for an idea of why durability is important.

Why You Should Use the Right Stone Setting Tools for Jewelry

Stonesetting is crucial to jewelry making but it is equally challenging to pull off. However, the right stone setting tools jewelry can go a long way in making it easier to deliver good results.

The right stone setting tools jewelry will help realize multiple goals simultaneously – it will enhance the overall design of the metal and the gemstone, it will secure the precious stone, and it will be resistant to wear and tear arising from day to day usage. A traditional bezel is generally the first go-to technique when it comes to stone setting but, as mentioned above, there are several other ways used by jewelers to set stones.

Using A Beading Tool for Stone Setting

If you want an elegant and smooth edge for your stone set jewelry, it is important that you utilize a beading tool for stone setting. A beading tool for stone setting is used to make mini prongs or beads – these are used to provide detail and texture to the design and securely set the gemstone. Beading tools generally come in several sizes and are well finished. This will translate to a smoother surface. This tool can be used to set just about any gem, from diamonds to rubies, and in a variety of stonesetting techniques such as bead setting.

What Is A Stone Setting Tool Kit?

For jewelers looking to dive into jewelry making without wasting time, a stone setting tool kit may just be their best option. As one may guess from the name, it offers an all-inclusive package to begin stonesetting. A stone setting tool kit comes with everything required. It has multiple tools for different gems and different techniques a jeweler may want to use in his work. For example, some kits include pliers that assist in setting burs for the drilling of stone mountings into various shapes and sizes. Other kits may include items like a bezel rocker – which helps create a neat and even result for bezel setting – or a burnisher.

Of course, no kit is similar to another so a jeweler must first analyze his work and the tools required for him to successfully complete the said work. Once they have a clear idea of the tools necessary, they can shop for a stonesetting kit that fits their requirements.