Fabricating A Basket Head Pendant

Learn the fundamentals of fabricating a traditional basket head pendant from wire. This hands-on class focuses on creating a professional-quality basket setting from scratch while developing precision soldering and fabrication skills commonly used in fine jewelry. In this 5-hour class, students will construct a pendant mounting designed to hold an 8mm round faceted stone (approximately 2 carats). Throughout the class, students will learn how to measure, form, solder, and refine individual components to create a finished basket setting and pendant bail. Please note: Stone setting is not included in this course. Students interested in learning how to set a stone into their completed basket setting should take to the Prong Setting class. Skills Covered Understanding basket head construction and design Measuring and cutting wire components Forming and aligning basket prongs Creating and soldering cross members Maintaining symmetry and proper spacing Fabricating a pendant bail Soldering techniques for multi-component assemblies Filing, refining, and finishing fabricated settings Student Project Students will fabricate one basket head pendant designed to accommodate an 8mm round faceted stone. Materials Required (will be provided) 1.1mm round wire (or equivalent gauge wire as determined by instructor) Solder and soldering supplies Pendant bail material Tools Required (will be provided) Jeweler's saw Files Flex shaft Pliers Soldering station and torch Layout and measuring tools Standard bench tools for fabrication Take your skills to the next level with this new class!