Integrating old stones into new jewelry is a fantastic way
to recycle out-of-date or broken pieces. Gems set in family-heirloom pieces can
also be reset on their own or with a combination of new stones to create
stunning pieces of considerable value. Safe stone removal is an essential part
of this process, and jewelers interested in using old stones need to learn how
to remove them from all types of settings.
Harvesting stones from traditional settings in gold and silver jewelry is usually a simple mechanical process, but removing stones from platinum and cluster settings can be tricky and may require chemical assistance. Removing extremely small stones can take a lot of time, so focusing on larger stones for removal and resetting is a good practice. Once the stones are out, the fun begins. From here, you can mix and match sizes, shapes and stones to create one-of-a-kind pieces.
Creating new jewelry out of old stones is a rewarding process that keeps good gemstones from gathering dust in an attic. Whether you buy older jewelry to recombine on your own or you have customers who want to give their older pieces new life, this process takes skill and a good eye for design. The first step is safe stone removal, so learn the basic manual skills required, purchase the proper tools and keep up with changes and advances in chemical processes.
Harvesting stones from traditional settings in gold and silver jewelry is usually a simple mechanical process, but removing stones from platinum and cluster settings can be tricky and may require chemical assistance. Removing extremely small stones can take a lot of time, so focusing on larger stones for removal and resetting is a good practice. Once the stones are out, the fun begins. From here, you can mix and match sizes, shapes and stones to create one-of-a-kind pieces.
Creating new jewelry out of old stones is a rewarding process that keeps good gemstones from gathering dust in an attic. Whether you buy older jewelry to recombine on your own or you have customers who want to give their older pieces new life, this process takes skill and a good eye for design. The first step is safe stone removal, so learn the basic manual skills required, purchase the proper tools and keep up with changes and advances in chemical processes.