Hello,
I have a question about channel setting rings and the tools needed to
do it. During my education in college we did not do any channel
settings and my professor recommended that I out-source this portion
of the project. (I don’t think he knew how to do it) The problem
about out-sourcing it is, 1) this is a ring for my Nephews
engagement; he really, really, really wants it to be made by me. And
2) My feeling about it is that I would rather learn a new skill in
the process, being that I AM supposed to be a jewelry artist now and
why would I, as a “jeweler”, not learn the skill required,
increasing my knowledge base and skill set? (I DO wish I had as much
confidence in myself as my nephew has faith in my skills, Haha!)
Anyway, my question is this…
A classmate of mine had purchased a stone setting kit that came with
a jig, all sizes of different bur types, and a very good
instructional manual on how to cut settings of any type, and to do
them with this setting kit. I have done all sorts of other settings
and will do some trial runs (practice) first before doing the actual
final rings, but for the life of me I cannot find anything like this
kit on the internet, and I am probably not searching correctly,
either. I cannot remember the brand name nor do I know where he got
it. I have not had any responses from him when I call or send an
email. Does anyone have any suggestions where to find something like
this? (I already know it isn’t going to be cheap, but I feel
investing in tools is an investment into my future as a jewelry
artist. Actually I am a tool hoarder. I LOVE my tools)
The stones I will be channel setting are princess cut diamonds and
blue sapphires. I will purchase pre-made shanks of probably 14k white
gold from Hoover & Strong with the channel already rough cast in it,
but realize the channel will need to be cut for the stones. I have
the stone setting burs, and know the proper sized heart bur is used
to undercut the channel wall, and this kit had a wonderful little jig
that made sure your channel was perfectly straight.
I really would love to find this kit, so as I practice and learn, my
job is easier and the channel is not problematic for me. Any one out
here in “Orchid Land” familiar with what I am talking about? Any
suggestions would be greatly appreciated!