Mark B. Mann – Technical Articles

Many rings incorporate yellow and white gold elements to produce a rich contrast of warm and cool colors. But when both colors are incorporated into the same shank, the bench jeweler who sizes the ring faces a challenge. To size up a two-tone ring, the jeweler must:

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Posted on September 1, 2000

Polish Hard to Reach Places Quickly and Easily

Author Mark B. MannCategories Textures and Finishing

3M Adalox paper-backed aluminum oxide sanding discs are used routinely by a majority of bench jewelers. In addition to using them for sanding, Jeffrey Mathews, CMBJ, of Jeffrey Mathews Designs, Dallas, uses them as a polishing device to reach narrow, hard-to-get areas of his fabricated pieces. Here’s how you can perform his trick:

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Posted on August 1, 2000

Minimize or Eliminate Breakage of Stones in V-Shaped Prongs

Author Mark B. MannCategories Stone Setting

Setting a pear or marquise in a V-shaped prong without breaking the stone can be difficult. Moreover, the points of such stones are susceptible to damage during the course of normal wear. Certified Master Bench Jeweler Stephen Hermanson of Galloway and Moseley, Sumter, S.C., says the key to preventing damage is to avoid contact between…

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Posted on April 1, 2000

Making Bezels for Round and Oval Shapes

Author Mark B. MannCategories Stone Setting

For Your Staff/Defining Quality Knowing how to professionally manufacture bezels demonstrates another aspect of quality in your shop.

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Posted on January 1, 2000

Modify Pliers for Increased Precision and Security

Author Mark B. MannCategories Jewelry Making, Repair and Soldering

Jewelers of America Inc. Innovations for Working Bench Jewelers from JA Certified Master Bench Jewelers By MARK B. MANN, DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION, JEWELERS OF AMERICA Taking five minutes to make three simple alterations to a pair of standard pliers can save hours of precious work time at the bench as well as increase the…

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Posted on January 1, 1998

Channel-Setting Round Stones

Author Mark B. MannCategories Stone Setting

Channel Setting Round Stones Knowing how to set melee diamonds demonstrates another aspect of quality in your shop by Mark B. Mann Director of Professional Certification Jewelers of America This installment begins a new format we think you’ll like more illustrations, fewer words!

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