Gemstone Settings

Gemstones are set into jewellery using different techniques which influence the overall feel and aesthetic of a piece. We use three main setting types in our practice, being claw setting, bezel setting and cast-in-place.  Within these settings there are a wide range of variations that give a different feel to each piece. 

Claw Setting

A claw setting is where a gemstone is set in the piece after it has been carved from wax and cast into precious metals.  We can set most varieties of precious and semi-precious gemstones with this setting.  There are a range of claw set styles within our practice, from large bold claws to small delicate settings.  The amount of claws can range any where between two and eight, depending on the size and shape of the gemstone.

Cast in Place

Cast in place is a process whereby the gemstones are set into the wax and then cast in precoius metals.  This gives the effect of the gemstones being embedded or buried within the gold. As this process exposes the gemstones to high temperatures, the only stones that are hard enough to withstand this process are rubies, sapphires and diamonds.  There are many styles and shapes within this setting practice.

Below, is a collection of pieces whose gemstones are embedded into the band.  Here a central round cut white diamond flanked by two green sapphires and two wedding bands with three embedded green sapphires.

Bezel setting