Level: Intermediate
Requirements: Comfort with Flexshaft and Jewelry I
Program: Spring
Status: Closed
Length: 2 Days
Tuition: $ 375
Materials: $ 55
Date: June 17, 2006 - June 18, 2006
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Metalwerx

Flush setting is one of the quickest and easiest of all stone setting techniques. This procedure allows the artist to embellish their jewelry with gemstones without the need for incorporating an actual “setting” into the item of jewelry.

Flush setting is a procedure for setting faceted gemstones directly into metal, without the use of prongs or beads. The technique derives its name from the table of the gemstone being level or “flush with“ the surrounding metal. The stones can be placed anywhere on the object that there is sufficient thickness of metal to set them into.

This style of setting is also known as burnish setting, rub-over, or gypsy setting. It has become quite popular with contemporary jewelry designers and is a practical and efficient approach for adding gemstones to jewelry designs. It literally takes only minutes to set a stone using this approach.

In this class we will focus on the flush setting application for small round stones in both straight and graduated sizes. It is appropriate for both beginning and intermediate level stone setters. We will be covering the process of

• precision lay out and measuring techniques
• drilling and enlarging holes
• using a variety of burs to cut seats
• tightening and burnishing settings
• setting round stones
• setting fancy shape stones
• setting on flat and curved surfaces
• making burnishers

Experience level: Students should have familiarity with using the flex shaft. Prior stone setting experience, although not mandatory, will be helpful.

This workshop will be directed towards both beginner and intermediate levels. The instructor will be able to guide students with the appropriate projects so if you have taken Flush Setting I or are a complete beginner, this class is for you!

Materials & Tools

Tool Kit cost: $55 for drill bits, burs, practice plates, practice stones, wax, burnishers.

Students will bring:

• optivisor with /#5 lens
• metal ruler
• dividers
• a pair of tweezers
• either a vernier, dial calipers, or digital slide gauge
• a jeweler's saw frame and sawblades #1, #2/0, and #4/0
• a small metal tin with a lid, such as an altoids box
• toothbrush
• writing materials
• escapement files/needle files: square, oval, triangle, #4 and #6 cut
  if you have them

Those of the students who have previous experience should also bring:

• gravers
• a sharpening stone
• #2/0 and #4/0 polishing paper (emery cloth)