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Fine Jewelry University Articles matching: “Tension setting”
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Fine Jewelry University (Show All FJU Articles)
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Types of Jewelry Clasps
… the traditional oblong shape, hearts, teardrops, specialty designer styles, and more. They have a simple spring tension mechanism that holds the clasp closed. When the trigger is pushed down, the clasp opens. When the trigger is released, … of in the Barrel Clasp section below. A piece of folded metal called a tongue is pushed into the open box. The tension on the fold in the metal causes it to click into place once it is full inserted into the box. When it’s time to open the …
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Caring for and Cleaning Your Jewelry
… list at Mohs 3. Platinum list at Mohs 4.33. Sterling silver list at Mohs 2.5. This shows why jewelry metals get scratched by things like hard toothbrushes and dirt (most dirt ranges 4-8 on the Mohs scale). Several different types of settings hold diamonds in the jewelry. From time to time gently touch the stone to see if it moves. If the stone moves, don’t wear it and have a professional jeweler tighten the gem. Most jewelry stores will check you jewelry for free. Take …
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The Magic of Polarized Light
… gem is formed. When the gem is cast, as most glass gems are, the inside cools at a slower rate than the outside. This is because the center retains more heat. As it cools and contracts, the surface of the stone is put under a lot of tension from the internal forces pulling in on it. The strain distorts the polarized light showing anomalous double refraction (ADR). Many optics manufacturers use a polariscope to analyze the internal stresses of their glass. Can you see the …
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Anatomy of a Ring
…? As a final point on heads it is important to note that not all rings have a head. Some designs incorporate the setting of the gemstone directly into the rest of the ring without using a separate part. These designs can use a combination of…
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Gem in the Spotlight: Blue Zircon
… with good hardness on the Mohs scale (6 to 7.5). However, Zircon has what is known as indistinct cleavage which creates a somewhat brittle tendency that can lead to chips, especially along facet edges requiring extra care when setting, cleaning, or wearing. The Mythology and History of Zircon Since it has been known from antiquity, Zircon has a rich mythology. Zircon is one of December’s birthstones. In the middle ages, Zircon was said to aid in resting, induce sound …
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Gem in the Spotlight: Tanzanite
… is stable and won’t be harmed under normal conditions the low hardness and poor to fair toughness (and a property called cleavage, which is a tendency to break when struck) means that care should be taken to avoid sharp impacts. Setting it in earrings or a pendant will help protect it if the intended use is daily wear. Rings and bracelets set with tanzanite should only be worn carefully on occasion. We recommend cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft bristle brush. You…
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Platinum
…. It is resistant to tarnishing and discoloration due to chlorine and other chemicals. These factors, along with its strength and white luster, have made platinum an increasingly popular choice for jewelry, either on its own or as the setting for diamonds and other precious gemstones. Platinum jewelry does not fade or tarnish and keeps its looks for a lifetime. Platinum’s purity makes it hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin. All the platinum ever mined …
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Jewelry Repair FAQ
… gold and rhodium plated, you may notice the plating wearing off and the ring taking on a slight yellowish hue. If this bothers you, you can stop by more often to have it replated. Some jewelry with very fragile stones or light weight setting styles may need more frequent visits depending on how often you wear it. Some jewelry may need very little maintenance even after years of wear. After a few checkups, you will get a feel for how your jewelry wears and what the best …
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Alternative Metals for Men’s Jewelry
… you can exchange your ring for a different size). Carbon fiber wedding bands display high style and strength setting the wearer apart from the crowd. Ceramic (Titanium Carbide) Ceramic jewelry, like many of the “alternative metals” is …which fades overtime. Zirconium is currently the only permanently black jewelry that is workable enough to allow the setting of diamond or other gems. Ceramic is another permanently black option (it can even be made a more pure black than …
