Jewelry Making Resources | Fire Mountain Gems and Beads

Ask the Experts Metalsmithing Q&A

Q: If I'm creating a silver pendant for a flat back cabochon and have soldered on a bezel setting to a backplate, how do I set decorative faceted gems around it? I've used flat back smooth round cabs with bezel cups soldered on, but want to use faceted gemstones that have a point at the back, 4mm. Do I put something in the bezel cup, or make a hole in the backplate? Or something else?

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Ask the Experts Metal Work Q&A

Q: How should I store liver of sulfur for safety? How long does a liver of sulfur solution last?

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Everything You Need to Know About Jeweler's Saws

Find everything you need know about jeweler's saws in this video and informative article. Learn the tips and tricks to using a jeweler's saw to get the design you want.

Accurate Measuring in Jewelry-Making

Learn how to save time and money by taking the guesswork out of wireworking and metalsmithing by learning how to accurately measure. In this article jewelry-making expert Sandra Lupo teaches us how to accurately measure for jewelry-making success.

Mandrels for Jewerly-Making

Have questions about mandrels? Learn all about this valuable metalsmithing tool and the different options available in this article on mandrels.

Cold Connections

Using cold connections can really change how your jewelry comes together. Find out what metalsmithing master Tammy Honaman says are some of the best tools for cold connecting metal.

Soldering Savvy

Soldering can be a difficult task, but the end results are amazing. Helen Driggs, courtesy of Jewelry Making Daily, is here to help make soldering just a little easier.

How to Make a Sterling Silver Pendant Setting

Create a custom cabochon setting using these step-by-step instructions. This project tutorial explores bench jeweler metal fabrication techniques such as sawing, soldering, filing and polishing.

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Ask the Experts Hammering Metals Q&A

Q: Please tell me what tool to use for a hammered look on metals like sterling silver and gold-filled?

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Ask the Experts Bead Glass Q&A

Q: Can I use the rock tumbler to make beach glass?

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Ask the Experts Flex-Shaft Q&A

Q: I have been looking at your Rotary tool located in Metalsmithing. I am a new graduate from Jewelry Design and Repair and I'm wondering if this tool can take the place of a Flex Shaft. And if I purchased this rotary tool will it do all of the same jobs done that a flex shaft does or will I still have to purchase a Flex Shaft to do some jobs?

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Ask the Experts Metalsmithing Q&A

Q: I love the look of hand hammered brass washers from the hardware store. Do you have any tricks or tools for texturing both sides?

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Ask the Experts Metal Sheets Q&A

Q: Thank you so much for providing answers to my many questions. I hadn't realized this was an option. I've been fascinated with Argentium, but I can't find much in the way of instructional materials. I have several questions for you, and I thank you in advance for taking time to answer.

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Ask the Experts Metalsmithing Q&A

Q: I have seen coins (buffalo nickels) bent to make buttons or jewelry. How is this done?

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Pickle

A liquid applied to a metal surface that removes surface impurities (such as stains, scale, rust and more).

Single-Strand Necklace and Earrings Set

Elaine Lawell's love of ginkgo leaves shines in these highly detailed focals, cast from molds of the artist's original handmade piece. With its realistic botanical theme, "Ginkgo 5-leaf" has a whisper of Art Nouveau influence while appealing to modern sophistication.

Design Idea PF3N

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Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set

Make a bold statement and learn basic metalsmithing techniques when you create this modern jewelry set.

Design Idea J12W

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Making Jump Rings with Jump Ring Mandrels

You can learn how to make your own jump rings! Sandra Lupo, metalsmithing expert, shows how to use wire and a mandrel to form these jewelry-making powerhouses.

Video Length 3:53

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Single-Strand Necklace

Tamara Allison's coppery creation is designed, she says, for a bride. It features muted coppers, greys and creams to accent the floral cabochon focal.

Design Idea J32L

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Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set

Lillypilly lacquered copper sheet is artistically cut into heart shapes, creating an earring and pendant set that exudes romance with a touch of industrial chic.

Design Idea NN2N

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