how to make and set claw settings - free online course
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Claw setting (also known as prong setting/basket setting) is a versatile method of setting gemstones into your jewellery designs. To make this type of setting you use wire to create a frame for the stone to sit in and the claws/prongs that will hold the gemstone in place.
In this FREE course professionally filmed for you by us at Jewellers Academy, you will follow jeweller Stelios Karantonas who creates a claw setting from scratch, designing and making it to fit with the gemstone shape and size.
This technique can be used for all sizes and shapes of gemstone and is perfect for irregular shapes and cuts because you can tailor-make the setting to fit. Plus, once you’ve mastered this technique, it can be used in so many of your designs for necklaces, earrings, bracelets - the limit is your imagination!
What will I learn?
In this course, Stelios takes you through how to make a claw set pendant. You will learn how to create a seat for your individual cabochon stone and how to solder on wires to create your claws/prongs (see photo below).
You will then learn how to shape the claws to hold the stone securely and how to set the stone and finish the piece ready to wear.
If you’d love to learn how to claw set then sign up now for free on the button below.
Tips
For your first try at claw setting, start with a larger oval gemstone, e.g. 5cm/2 inches long or larger. When you have more confidence you can move onto setting smaller and more irregular-shaped gemstones.
This is an intermediate-level project so you will need some experience of working with silver and of soldering. This project includes multiple solder joins so is great for you to practice and hone your soldering skills!
Be patient with yourself when you are learning a new technique. It takes practice to become proficient. You’ll be working on smaller gemstones and irregular shapes in no time!
I’d love to learn but I’m a beginner ..
If you are a beginner at making silver jewellery or would love to start here’s our recommendation!
We suggest taking our Silver Jewellery Workshop and our Soldering Masterclass.
These online courses take you through the basics of working with silver. In the Silver Jewellery Workshop, you learn how to make a silver ring and a pendant/charm. In the Soldering Masterclass, you learn about how to solder for different purposes including multiple solder joins in one piece.
If you would like to take both, you can purchase the course bundle for a reduced price.
Alternatively, take a look at our Makers Membership. At just £29 per month (no minimum commitment) or £279 for annual membership, get access to all of our individual jewellery making courses including both the Silver Jewellery Workshop and the Soldering Masterclass *
Learn more about Makers Membership >
* Makers Membership does not include access to our Diploma courses