Description
Create a gravity defying necklace by setting a gemstone in the center of an open lentil bead. The dimension gives the stone the illusion that it is floating in the middle of the bead, making a bold statement. This seemingly complex necklace is easier to make than you think! Combine basic metalsmithing and stone setting techniques to make this one-of-a-kind gemstone necklace.
Skills: Basic metalsmithing, Basic stone setting
Materials:
- Traditional of Argentium sterling sheet, 22 gauge
- 18-guage half-round wire
- Mexical opal or other irregular-shaped stone
- Boulder opal or other beads
- Silver beads
- Bead-stringing cord
- Clasp
- Crim beads
- Chemical blackener (optional)
Tools: Basic hand tools, soldering setup, circle template, disc punches (optional), dapping punches and dapping block or thermoset plastic
Originally published in Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist January/February 2020
