Gemstones

A gemstone is a natural stone that meets certain criteria: brilliance, transparency, color and hardness. Each stone is unique: their size, thickness and color may vary.

None at all! Pierre fine is the official term to replace the former "semi-precious stone" appellation, now banned in France. But it can also be called "natural stone".

There are many ways to set a stone cabochon:

• If you're using a claw setting, use flat-nose pliers, preferably with nylon tips, to fold the legs of the setting over the stone. For more information on the art of setting cabochons, please consult our information sheet.
• You can also set gemstones with macramé wires. The gemstone is "enclosed" by macramé knots on both sides. This prevents the cabochon from moving.
• You can also use wire-wrapping, a technique that involves working the wires to set the stone.

• If you'd like to mount a stone as a pendant, it couldn't be easier! Glue a cabochon stone onto a pendant setting with a little jewelry glue, then hang it from a chain! In just a few minutes, you'll have a stunning gemstone necklace.
• Slide beads onto a wired thread to make a multi-strand bracelet. You can make a monochrome version, or combine different types of stones to create a multi-colored version.
• Glue gemstones onto wide hoop earrings to make a pair of original earrings in no time at all. It's super-simple and accessible to all designers.
• Create gemstone rings with wire and beads.

Get inspired by our gemstone DIY jewelry tutorials: the possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!