Open Tube Set Ring

This is my second project in Stage 3 of the Silver Program at Jewellery Training Solutions. I’m doing them slightly out of order since I had to wait for some of the stones that I needed for a couple of the projects. I think this is a beautiful ring, and I really enjoyed making it.

What were the challenges?

One of the biggest challenges I had with this project is that my stone was a little bit too big so I had to make some adjustments to the setting. This project called for a step bezel, but I ended up having to use a setting bur to open up the tubing a bit.

Where could I improve?

I need to improve my finishing in tight places - like in the open space in the shoulders and the small cut away sections of the setting. I also wish the ends of the shoulders flared out a bit - I also think they should be a bit tapered.

What did I learn?

Making tubing this time was much easier than it has been - I finally bought a swage block! Also, I rolled the metal for the band and was able to get a nice, clean piece of wire (this ring started with 3mm round wire). I’ve had a lot of trouble with cracks in my ingots, which has been very frustrating. The way he taught us to construct this ring was really interesting. I can’t say enough times how much I am enjoying this program!