Enlarging a Bezel

by Judy Larson
Bezels need to be a tight fit to contain a stone without the stone wobbling. Occasionally, that can mean erring on the side of too small. Here's how to fix that without starting over.
Instructions
When the stone is straight sided, like the druzy, it is especially important to have a tight fit because the bezel on this type of cabochon can't be pushed over the stone to hold it in place. Sometimes, I err on the side of caution and make a bezel a bit too small. Yes, a new bezel could be made, but it is an easy fix to make the bezel a bit larger.
Judy Larson's Enlarging a Bezel - , Metalwork, , stretching a bezel
Using a ring mandrel to stretch a bezel can make a bezel very slightly cone shaped, which may not work well with some stones, such as this straight sided druzy.

This method will not distort the shape of the bezel. Thread a metal jump ring mandrel or a dapping punch handle through the bezel. With your hands on both sides of the mandrel, roll the mandrel with the bezel back and forth across a bench block a time or two, using a bit of pressure on the mandrel. This will stretch the bezel out just a bit. Reshape the bezel, check the fit, and repeat the process if needed. Works every time!
Judy Larson's Enlarging a Bezel - , Metalwork, , stretching a bezel
Judy Larson's Enlarging a Bezel - , Metalwork, , stretching a bezel

Materials

28 Gauge 3/16" Fine Silver Bezel Wire
H9-28BZL
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1FT
  • Price: $13.60
  • Gold Club Price: $10.20
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Tools

8 Piece Brass And Steel Mini Mandrel Set
G7-28
  • G7-28
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $9.97
  • Gold Club Price: $7.48
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Steel and Rubber Bench Block 4x4 Inches
G17-44
  • G17-44
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $29.95
  • Gold Club Price: $22.46
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  • Category: Metalwork
  • Technique(s): General Education