Here is a tip for sizing a ring with a stone set in it from
@marquisjewelryacademy - "If I need to size a ring after I've already set the stone I use this method for most silver and gold rings. I learned this paper towel technique while working at the bench from another Goldsmith. Here we're sizing silver 6g half round and a 8x10 bezel set agate. First: I take a piece of paper towel about 6"x 6" and fold it up to about 3/4" then I wet the paper towel liberally and squeeze it out a bit. You want the towel thoroughly wetted but not soaking. I then wrap the towel around the stone once or twice through the ring and then around the stone with the rest. Grabbing the towel covered stone with the cross locking tweezers you can hold the piece while having an added heat sink. I then use a brush to apply boric acid and denatured alcohol to the exposed shank and light it on fire to coat. Cut an appropriate piece of solder and insert using the tension method to hold in place. Begin soldering with a hot flame to get in and out fast. I cropped the process for this tip, but it took about 30 seconds adjusting to heat from from both sides. This process produces a lot of steam which I blow away from the shank but it's not absolutely necessary. When the solder has flowed you can remove the paper towel and pickle. The towel is re-usable until it's too charred or you've used it for something else, I usually re-use it 5 or 6 times. I'd advise against using this method on more delicate stones like opal and turquoise until you've practiced on some agates, jaspers, quartz, sapphires, or diamonds.” Thank you so much for sharing this with us! Sizing can always be tricky so I agree it’s a great idea to practice this method! Thanks for sharing with us!
#sizingaring #heatprotect #solderingaring #makingjewelry #jewelrymakingschool
