Professional Bezel-Setting Techniques
Danielle Miller-Gilliam
Class Preview
1:44
- In-depth Instruction; over 165 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Push-Over Bezel: Rounds & Ovals
13:01
Meet jeweler Danielle Miller-Gilliam and preview the three versatile bezel settings you'll make in class. Begin with Danielle's foolproof tips for forming a push-over bezel and you'll see how to measure, shape and solder it. Plus, get tips on fine-tuning the bezel, ensuring that the cabochon fits perfectly inside.
Push-Over Bezel: Setting the Stone
23:42
Now that you've ensured the fit of your stone, finish your setting and create a lovely ring. With Danielle's guidance, discover how to create a sturdy solder joint on a textured ring shank before soldering it to your bezel cup. Then, get step-by-step instruction on setting the stone by hand for a polished and professional look.
Push-Over Bezel: Free-Form Stones
28:43
Use the techniques you've learned so far to transform a faceted rose-cut stone and free-form cabochon into wearable art. Danielle walks through the entire process of measuring, shaping and setting free-form shapes. Working with transparent stones? Danielle shares important design considerations.
Hammer-Set Bezel: Rounds & Ovals
20:53
Learn how to fabricate sophisticated and sturdy hammer-set bezels as you begin making an attractive round cabochon ring. Gain confidence measuring and shaping thicker gauge metal, then see Danielle's effective method of soldering a horseshoe-shaped ring shank to the backplate for a solid connection.
Hammer-Set Bezel: Setting the Stone
20:48
Finish the ring you started in Lesson 4 by hammer-setting the stone. After filing the bezel to the correct height, Danielle shows you how to use a hammer and setting tools, as well as a flex shaft attachment, to secure the cabochon. Then, make your pieces shine with Danielle's trusty polishing tips.
Hammer-Set Bezel: Fancy Shapes
27:20
Whether you're fabricating an intricate marquise, triangle or pear-shaped setting, Danielle demystifies the process! Learn how to accurately measure your bezel length with Danielle's favorite trick. Then, find out Danielle's go-to method for securing pendants and earrings in a vise to fit and set the stone.
Tab-Set Bezel: Corners
29:47
Expand your design possibilities -- and add visual impact to your jewelry -- with a striking tab-set bezel. Using a two-wire bezel fabrication technique, Danielle demonstrates her tried-and-true method for creating sharp corners. Learn how to wield your saw and cut tabs to the proper height, and secure your stone.
Join jewelry artist Danielle Miller-Gilliam, and find out how to make a bezel setting for a variety of flat-backed stones: even irregular, square, and pear-shaped selections. First, discover how to measure your bezel and test your stone during fabrication to ensure the perfect fit. Learn how backplates enhance the design of your setting and use accessible soldering techniques to create the foundation for stunning rings and pendants. You’ll find out how to craft smooth, gap-free settings, and conquer irregularly shaped stones with fabrication techniques – like how to solder crisp bezel corners – as well as proper positioning when setting the stone. You’ll even learn to use your chisel and hammer (or flex shaft) to turn sheet metal into a structural bezel and follow along with Danielle to refine your settings. Finally, discover the safest, most effective ways to polish your stones and projects for professional-quality results.
Danielle Miller-Gilliam
Danielle Miller-Gilliam received her BFA from Temple University, after which she apprenticed under a master goldsmith. She opened her business, Danielle Miller Jewelry, in 1998, and continues to sell her custom designs today. Danielle's work has been exhibited in juried shows across the U.S., and her designs have been featured in numerous publications.
Bonus materials available after purchase