mastering the art of advanced stone setting with scott mcintyre (podcast episode)

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Ready to take your stone-setting skills to the next level?

 This week on the Jewellers Academy Podcast, Jess sits down with master stone setter Scott McIntyre to dive deep into the precision, tools, and artistry behind advanced techniques—especially fishtail setting.

From the intricacies of high-level craftsmanship to the ongoing evolution of jewellery design, Scott shares expert insights on:

🔹 The power of precision and magnification in setting
🔹 How proper technique beats brute force every time
🔹 Choosing between affordable vs. high-end tools—what really matters?
🔹 The joy (and frustration) of learning through mistakes
🔹 Why even masters never stop honing their craft

Whether you're an experienced setter or striving to perfect your technique, this episode is packed with game-changing advice to elevate your skills.

 

Listen now and discover the secrets to next-level stone-setting

 
 


Listen to the podcast episode on the player below:

Takeaways from this episode

  • Scott McIntyre is a master stone setter and goldsmith.

  • Fishtail setting is a relatively new style in jewellery.

  • Advanced settings like fishtail and castle require precision and skill.

  • The fishtail setting allows for more light to enter the stones.

  • Pave setting is similar to fishtail and castle settings.

  • Learning pave is essential before tackling more complex settings.

  • The tools for advanced settings can be simple and affordable.

  • Each step in stone setting is methodical and leads to the next.

  • Mistakes are part of the learning process in jewellery making.

  • Mastering these techniques places jewellers in a unique category.

  • Following established techniques is crucial in stone setting.

  • Magnification aids in achieving accuracy in jewellery making.

  • Affordable tools can achieve high-end results.

  • Proper setup and technique are more important than power.

  • Learning through failure is part of the process.

  • Masterclasses provide an opportunity for continuous learning.

  • It's essential to learn hand-setting before using advanced tools.

  • Enjoying the process enhances the learning experience.

  • Don't feel pressured to invest in expensive equipment.

  • Progression in skills comes with practice and patience.


want to know more about the jewellers academy courses?

 
 

DIPLOMA PROGRAM

Year 1: Diploma in Silver Jewellery https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma

 

Year 2: Diploma in Fine Jewellery https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma-in-fine-jewellery

 

Year 3: Advanced Jewellery Diploma https://www.jewellersacademy.com/advanced-jewellery-diploma


Scott McIntyre is a master stone setter and a tutor for the Jewellers Masterclasses, Diploma in Fine Jewellery and Advanced Jewellery Diploma.

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