QuestionHi,
I am just starting out with this new so called hobby, as I had found the jewelry channel on the TV. I have a collection of gems and I want to go one step further. I want to start by buying gold or sliver ring base and custom the top and the prongs for a custom look on the ring. I am in the beginning stage of learning about the melting of old or new gold and sliver and I want to practice on some old jewelry. I am to the point now that I have to purchase a torch. I have searched the web and keep coming up with small devices similar to this cut and paste:(MICRO TORCH WITHOUT BUTANE Electronic instant ignition system for push-button start-ups. Both flame and temperature can be adjusted precisely. Provides up to 90 minutes of burn time before refill is required. High temperature flame of 2500 F (1371 C). I am not really excited about getting into anything expensive or extremely complicated. I would like to see if I could master melting and fixing prongs around a gem. Would this type of torch work for me in my starting stage? And lastly, do they use a gold say wire or strip to make these small long prongs around the stone? If so, what would be the best product to buy for playing with 10K-14k gold and sterling silver.
Thank you, I think I will have more questions
Teresa
AnswerHello Teresa,
I apologies for my slow response........its been a mad part of the year.
Firstly congrats and good luck with your hobby and fulfillment of interest.
I would avoid the type of set up that you describe.
The simplest and most cost efficient way to achieve your goal is with a simple propane torch that you may be able to purchase at a good hardware store or gas/bbq grill type of place. All you require is a handpiece which you can use with most any camping/grill gas bottle.
This handpiece with different heads will allow both delicate soldering and enough heat to anneal and with the addition of oxygen, very good and fast melting. However you will find that straight propane with a standard head will be enough heat to melt a few rings.
***Look at some of my previous answers that deal with precisely this question.
Most claws are purchased from a jewellery supply house as a ready made cast unit, or you could try say 'Rio Grande'
online. I'm guessing that you are in the states.
I would begin with Sterling silver and from the same sheet you can create the shank as well as the bezel setting once you have cut it with a piercing saw.
Hope this of assistance. Good Luck, P
