Labeling Cabs When Working with Them

by Judy Larson
Beads and cabochons, even though labeled "calibrated", are not always exactly the same size, shape, or thickness. I learned early that the bezels created for them are not always interchangeable.
Instructions
Even a scant difference in the length of bezel wire can mean the difference between a stone/bead fitting or not.

When working with multiples of the same stone/bead in a project, it is important that all bezels and corresponding cabochons/beads are labeled so a bezel is not ruined trying to push the wrong stone/bead into it.
It's always helpful to know the correct orientation of your cabochons or beads before setting them into the bezel at the end of a project.

Some people use a Sharpie to mark numbers directly on the stones or beads.

But since some materials are porous, those marks can be impossible to remove.

A better method is to use a small piece of numbered painter's tape on the back of each stone or bead.

Draw an arrow on the tape pointing toward the bezel seam.

Always indicate on the tape where the bezel seam aligns with the stone or bead this will save you trouble later.
Judy Larson's Labeling Cabs When Working with Them - , General Education, , labeling cabochons
Once soldered, it is easy to scratch the stone/bead number on the backplate inside the bezel.
Judy Larson's Labeling Cabs When Working with Them - , General Education, , scratch the cab number on the backplate
Judy Larson's Labeling Cabs When Working with Them - , General Education, , labeling cabs and backplates

Materials

28 Gauge 3/16" Fine Silver Bezel Wire
H9-28BZL
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1FT
  • Price: $22.17
  • Gold Club Price: $16.63
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22 Gauge Dead Soft Argentium Silver Sheet - 6 Inches
H19-22SM6
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1 Inch
  • Price: $104.76
  • Gold Club Price: $78.57
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retractable fine nose Sharpie
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
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Tools

Scotch 0.94 Inch Painters Tape for Taping Wires Together
G13-5
  • G13-5
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $5.97
  • Gold Club Price: $4.48
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Straight Steel Pick
CVR-400.30
  • CVR-400.30
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $3.95
  • Gold Club Price: $2.96
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Optional Tools
Whaley Precision Bezel & 90 Degree Shear
SHR-542.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $21.95
  • Gold Club Price: $16.46
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Titanium Bezel and Ring Shank Soldering Holder, Set of 3
HOL-134.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $24.95
  • Gold Club Price: $18.71
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Basic Soldering Kit
G15-4
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $58.95
  • Gold Club Price: $44.21
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12x12 Inch Rubber Mat
MAT-500.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $24.95
  • Gold Club Price: $18.71
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  • Category: General Education
  • Technique(s): General Education