❓FAQs: June Edition
Cameos, plain bands, and brushed finishes...
Each month we’ll be asking different members of the team to answer your questions. Feel free to send us your jewelry renovation queries in the comments or by replying to this email. I hope you enjoy and keep the questions coming!
-Sophie
Do you ever work with cameos?
Yes, we do work with heirloom and custom cameos!
Historically, cameos were hand-carved from natural shell, while later versions were made in glass or molded materials. Shell and glass cameos are especially delicate and require thoughtful handling. Designing a secure setting for a cameo calls for precision and a high level of bench skill, as the carving itself must be protected from pressure and impact.
One of my all time favorite Spur projects was making a gold locket featuring a client’s heart-shaped heirloom cameo. You can read more about it here.
When designing with heirloom cameos, we typically recommend necklaces or earrings, as they experience less wear than rings. We prefer platinum or 18k gold for these pieces because both metals provide long-term durability and strength. — Elisa
Do you make more simple designs like a plain band?
Yes! A plain band is a great option and one of our favorite ways to use heirloom gold from your original settings. Plain bands also leave plenty of room to explore different finishes or shapes, allowing you to introduce subtle details like texture and movement that reflect your personal style. You can order our favorite bombé, syros, and loupe bands with your heirloom gold on our website, or book in for a call to start a custom band!— Jamie
How do you create a brushed finish?
There are a lot of fancy finishing tools out there, but the best method is with scotch brite! The trick is to get the “swipes” of scotch brite going in the same direction.
— Hannah
❓What do you want to learn more about? Send us your questions, big or small!
Love these tips!!