Setting Jig

Ok, so it’s not Monday, or Thursday, when I said I would post. But, I have this done so I thought I would share now! :)

This is one of the projects from Stage 5 of the Silver program at Jewellery Training Solutions. Some projects I’m definitely excited about, and then some not so much. This one was in the not so much category, but I’m glad I did it. Not only will it be useful, it was a great learning experience. This device is used to help cut the 17 degree slant into the ring band when using a tapered bezel setting.

What were the challenges?

I had to make this one twice. Got all done with it the first time and realized I had the arms upside-down. Duh! Aside from that stupid mistake, which I’m not even sure how it happened, this project went well. The angles need to be precise, since that top angle needs to be exactly 34 degrees, and the arms need to be at 90 degrees. Cutting the slots for the cross bar was the most challenging part of this project.

Where could I improve?

I didn’t get the little button on the handle perfectly level. Tried to adjust it three times, and figured I’d leave well enough alone before I melted the whole thing. Also, the hole at the point is slightly off center.

What did I learn?

I got much better this time at mitering angles. This was great practice in drilling a straight hole through something thick (hole in tip). Each of these projects is definitely helping to increase my skills, and, most importantly, my confidence in my skills.