Lapidaryforum.net
Rockin' Jewelry => Tutorials for Jewelry Making => Topic started by: olgguy on July 23, 2016, 01:52:35 PM
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"WILLOWY" posted a question in photography that made me go looking for a special tape I used in the late 50's or early 60's. I didn't use it for cabs until the mid 80's. I can't believe it was still in my inventory. And more than that it is still good. I must say 3 M makes good products. Label reads "Scotch Brand Tapes" Tape #850, PAU14L7C2A4. This tape is a pressure sensitive MIRROR MYLAR FILM 3/4" wide X .002" thick. I put this tape in the bottom of Silver bezels when setting Montana agate or Amber and Rutilated Quartz. Because over time the Silver will oxidize and show thru the stone. An added advantage is the tape reflects light an improves the brightness of the stone.
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That's a great idea but there's another cheaper -- but maybe more fattening -- option. When I need a foilback for a cab in a closed-back setting I buy a bag of potato chips and use cut-outs from the shiny inside of the bag. It doesn't wrinkle like most aluminum foil, and is much sturdier. And if you're watching calories, a single bag will make dozens of foilbacks.
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When setting translucent cabs, I've shined up the inside of the bezel cup, then coated it with Renaissance wax before setting the stone. I don't know how it holds up with time. Guess I need to make something for myself to find out!
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It is always good to make something for yourself or family and friends. A lot of my work ends up that way even if it didn't start out that way.
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Just received an E mail from "H I S Glassworks" a product for preserving sandblasted surfaces called "Liquid Lust'er" . Maybe it will work on Silver inside and out. I have a line of sandblasted earrings that it might benefit.
www.hisglassworks.com
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I have used a piece of silver Mylar and cut a piece to fit the
Bezel and dropped in behind the stone. It seams to work fine. It's what I had.
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I am glad it worked. Seems to me there are probably other colors of Mylar these days even rainbow, with the right stone that would be interesting.
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Neat alternate with the tape. Another option is to drill a hole, take a hand saw and cut out the back leaving only a small rim so light can pass through the stone. You can also cut out a design so it shows through.
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Gemfeller, your idea is the best thing I've heard all week. I can now eat my snacks guilt-free, as I need the bags for a good cause! (I wonder if that makes them a tax deduction as well?)