Part V, Set the Cabochon

Now we are ready to set the cab into the bezel. The tools needed are: (L to R) triangle file that has two smooth sides, prong pusher, burnisher and ring holder.

Use masking tape around the bezel when using the prong pusher so you don't scratch the ring shank. Now set the stone, you need to do it in specific order. Consider the bezel as a clock, first push (gently, not too hard to displace the cab) at the 12:00, then push the the 6:00 o'clock, by 3:00 then 9:00 o'clock position. After you've done this, do it again at 1:30, 7:30, 4:30 and 10:30 setting. Once done, you can push all around the bezel to ensure there are no gaps and the bezel is set smoothly.

Almost done, now the tricky part, once set, we need to file the bezel setting to smooth it around the stone. See below, how I have a gap at the 1:00 o'clock, I need to go back and file closer, before burnishing the entire bezel to make it gleam. (sorry I've run out of time), so there will be Part VI, the final product to come....

Cab Setting Part I, Making the Bezel

I made a tutorial for a Jewelry forum I belong to. Here is the link
click here.
Tools you need: torch, cross pliers, tweezers, copper or plastic tongs for pickle, 3 step pliers (last setting isn't bad to get the bezel rounder, or a mandrel size 4.1 mm or knitting needle, scissors or Xuron cutters... charcohol block, container of water (in case you set yourself, other objects on fire).

4mm cab (this one is a sapphire) and small fine silver bezel wire or 26ga fine silver sheet and you can cut your own bezel wire

Cut the bezel wire with scissors, or cutters, a little longer than you need 2mm is a good idea. Shape the bezel wire around the cab, fiddle and fiddle and fiddle with it, till you drop it on the floor, then swear....

Then file and file and file, 1/2" round file is so handy.... 0, 1/0, and 2/0 sandpaper (I got this cool trick from my metalsmithing teacher, Dominique to put on paint stir stick)