Gotta put 2 cents worth in on this one. What is the big deal on what
to use under stones? I don’t think this question merits a 2 page
essay. Use sawdust, like I’ve seen under a few hundred pieces of
turquoise set in sterling. Flat bottom on the stone? Use plastic,
credit cards, cd’s, whatever, or, again, sawdust or crushed corncobs
or whatever. Why not erasers? Or if you just want a little cushion
under the stone, I doubt there’s enough sulfur in that small amount
of rubber to make for problems. I could be wrong, of course, but is
this something anyone needs to be an “expert” on? This thread should
be hammered completely flat by now, right? 
Hey, I’ve got a new
one. . .how about that new “Jett Sett” thermo-plastic Rio and R&B are
selling? You could push the stone down into it while it’s warm, and
it won’t stick to your precious leopard jasper or resinated
turquoise.
David L. Huffman, aghast at the complexity of life in general.
David;
Gotta agree with you. Those of us who make traditional native american
jewelry have been using saw dust, jewelers saw dust,very thin
cardboard,etc for over a hundred and twenty-five years. Not long ago,
I took a piece of very good ,natural,old turquoise out of an old
setting,only to find what appeared to be a piece of chewed up match
stick or straw in the bezel cup. I had much rather find this than to
attempt a repair job,and while trying to remove the stone,find that
the silversmith used epoxy. I also realize that everyone may not agree
with us and that they may have a different thought on the
matter;however,I don’t believe the use of these materials reduces the
beauty or value of the piece. I have seen some very fine work made by
some of the masters with these materials used. Respecting all opinions,
John Barton, Images By JJ
Hello, I’ve been reading about this topic and thought I’d jump in.
Every once in a while I would open up one of these surprises when they
need sizing or a new shank. The odor from rotting cigaret filters or
sawdust really makes a statement. Please use materials that don’t
absorb water or whatever and then rot. I’m not against building up a
beautiful stone. Just the choice some people make in materials.
Remember, some folks wear their rings while working or washing up.
Steve Ramsdell
I agree with you. Nothing is going to hurt the value of a great
stone or nice metal work. Too bad some of that turquoise is so thin.
Steve Ramsdell
Out in Los Angeles, Calif. I use Quake Hold for my stuff on high
shelfs, it also makes for a great filler. That is my 2 cents.
Andrew and Jill Morrison
2197 N. Allen Avenue
Altadena, California 91001
ph (626)798-6588
FAX (626)791-0263
e’mail @A_J_Morrison