Creating beads with a FLAT graver (2nd essay) => 11 photos

 In this 2nd (final) version of creating wire beads, I'll be showing exactly how these special beads will look during the preparation process.

 This delicate process had no "CAD" involved; it was all hand-carved.

   Only a Flat graver can achieve this delicate technique.

SETTING OF THE STONES.

1) With your Flat graver, place the corner of the blade at the four corners of the hole. Then you can twist that sliver of metal OVER THE GIRDLE OF THE STONE.

 2) Both of my stones have been accurately gauged for this delicate procedure.

3) Just for your information, this is how my ring clamp has been held.

4) Remember to lower the stone deep into the metal. The deeper you go, the stronger the beads will be.

5) In this photo, you will observe where the graver will be placed.

6) You can see where the Flat graver has started to create two of the beads.

7) Remember to "Dig in & Twist"; this will give you an excellent hand-made bead.

8) Please keep the edge of your Flat graver sharp. The fine edge will cut easily into the metal.

9) There is no need to bead-burnish the tip of the wire beads.

10) This process of making wire beads is the beginning of the "Cut Down" diamond setting technique.

11) I used a fine-pointed Onglette graver #1 to make an extension of the wire bead.

12) With this intricate bead-making technique, you can set delicate and very fragile stones.

13) Don't forget to lower your stone deeper into the metal. This will give you stronger and thicker wire-beads.