Journal · 980 notes
Notes from the bench
Written for buyers rather than for search engines: what a specification actually means, where an order usually goes wrong, and what to ask before you pay a deposit.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Gold vs. Silver: How Manufacturing Differs Between the Two Metals
Melting points, annealing cycles, solders, finishing, and tarnish control: why a silver shop and a gold shop run on different rhythms.
Making & process · Sep 2026
Ring Resizing Explained: What Happens at the Bench
Ring resizing ranges from a simple stretch to a careful cut-and-solder. Learn how the bench decides, what can go wrong, and which rings cannot be sized.
Making & process · Sep 2026
Oxidizing Sterling Silver: How We Add Patina at the Bench
Black oxide isn't damage—it's a controlled finish. We walk through liver of sulfur, how it darkens recesses, and why it wears off over time.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Taaffeite: The Gemstone Discovered Already Cut
Taaffeite is one of the few gemstones first identified as a cut stone, not a rough crystal. Its mauve color, sources, and collector history.
Making & process · Sep 2026
Stone Setting Mechanics: Why Prongs, Bezels and Pavé Hold (or Loosen)
A held gem is compressed metal over a girdle, not glued. Prong gauge, bezel wall and pave webs decide whether the stone stays put.
Making & process · Sep 2026
Laser Welding in Jewelry Repair and Setting: When It Helps, When It Hurts
Pulse energy, spot size, and when laser welding beats torch soldering for prong repair and stone setting on jewelry benches.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Morganite for Engagement Rings: A Peach-Pink Alternative to Diamond
Morganite's soft peach-pink tone is having a moment. We cover hardness, durability, setting choices, and whether it earns a place on your finger.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Ring Refurbishment: What Actually Happens When We Bring a Ring Back
Scratched prongs, cloudy stones, tired metal? A bespoke atelier walks through refurbishment steps, honest cost ranges, and what can and cannot be fixed.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Jade Guide: Jadeite vs. Nephrite, Toughness and Treatments
Jade means two different minerals—jadeite and nephrite. Learn why jade is the toughest gem, how to spot A, B and C jade, and how to buy it.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
How to Choose a Jeweler: Questions Worth Asking First
Price tags are easy to compare; workmanship is not. Here is what to ask and what to look for before you hand over a deposit.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Jade vs. Jadeite: A Bench Jeweler's Guide
Nephrite and jadeite are two different minerals sold under one name. We explain hardness, cuts, color grades, and how to care for both.
Stones & grading · Sep 2026
Hiddenite: The Green Spodumene Named for a Financier
Hiddenite is the green gem variety of spodumene, sibling to pink kunzite. Learn its color, sources, durability and how to wear it well.
