Daily Wire Tip Dec. 27: Wrapping a Pear-Shaped Cut Stone

By on December 27, 2010
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Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip for
December 27, 2010

Question:

I need suggestions for wrapping a pear shaped cut stone with a point on the back. It is 17 carat. Help! Should I make a cage or something else?

-Kathleen in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Answer:

Hi Kathleen, there are several ways to set a stone with a culet.

In the Advanced DVD series, one way would be to make it into a pendant using the “Orbit” prong pendant design; another would be to use the Prong Frame pendant design. Of course, either of these can also be altered for smaller stones to create earrings, too.

If you decide to use a frame, you will either have to add pattern wire in the center, or use a lot of wires to be able to make the frame deep enough to prevent the culet from rocking on the skin (which can be irritating to wear). I do love pear shapes, though, because they are so easy to work with!

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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One Comment

  1. avatar

    Jim Meier

    December 27, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    You could also do a “basket weave” on the Cage to conserve wire.
    And, depending on the depth of the stone, you could have several
    layers of “basket weave”. (stair steps look on your middle wire.)