pave surround setting (mounting) help

[lorlin]

Hi,

I'm a new jewelry designer and haven't figured out yet where to find the best resources for my supplies. I'm currently designing a necklace for a friend who would like a druzy stone in a pave surround setting like the pic attached. I have found the druzy stones that I like, but I haven't been able to find the pave settings or someone who would custom make one for me.

Can anyone point me in the right direction or give me any advice on where to find jewelry design supplies.

Thank you!

Lori

 

[Euphony]

I am confused a bit. (Especially since it looks like you have already made some. How did those get made?)

You are unlikely to find a pre-made setting for an irregularly shaped stone, so you are going to need to have one built. But I don't understand why you are having trouble finding someone to do it. Any custom shop would do that. There are a list of people who create mounts pinned in the recommended vendors list.

I get the impression, however, that you want to sell the jewellery you design, and be able to make a profit. Any jewellery maker is going to charge you the same price as they would charge your friend in order to make it, so your mark-up wouldn't make sense or be very fair. You are going to have a hard time finding a goldsmith willing to make your work at a discounted price so that you can mark it up, as it is the labour and materials that most of us charge for, and not the design.

Your best bet is to look into course and learn how to make it yourself, if you want to sell it. Do you know how to carve a wax? That would be a good place to start.

 

[chrono]

Due to the irregular shape, all these will have to be custom which will cost $$$ no matter how you look at it. On top of that, since you are reselling, you'll have to tack on an additional fee for your profit margin. Finding a bench isn't the issue. Finding one that is low cost is.

 

[Lady_Disdain]

A good bench jeweler is not a "supply", he is an invaluable resource. You are looking for a bench jeweler who works for the trade, not retail. Industry contacts are prized and it takes time to develop your own. Are you in a jewelry design program? A school will usually have contacts for the students. If not, ask around for a good bench jewelry course in your area and see if they have names.

Do you have detailed views of your designs from all views?

 

[lorlin]

Thank you for your replies. Finding a bench jeweler is a good start for me. I didn't even know what a bench jeweler was - I'm very new at this. I found a couple of bench jewelers in my area and will start with them.

Thank you again - very much appreciated!

Lori