How to crimp cabochons?

In costume jewelry, there are two main types of cabochon settings:

• The crimps to stick. The crimps to be stuck can have a flat bottom, or a bottom of the shape of the back of the concerned cabochon.
• The crimps claws to close on the cabochons. In this technical sheet, we will focus on crimps with claws or tabs.

What do cabochon claw crimps look like?

These are hollow or flat crimps, which have the shape of the cabochon. The edge of the cabochon is placed on the edge of the crimp. The claws surround the cabochon and must be folded over. Generally, the setting does not have a bottom to allow light to pass through the crystal cabochon, but some do. In addition, some settings have holes in the side, allowing them to be worn on a bracelet or necklace. Conversely, others have rings or are attached to pendants, bracelets, rings or earrings. Setting your cabochons is simple, but it requires some technique. We show you below how to set a cabochon.

How to use cabochon crimps?

Before we begin, here are the materials needed to crimp a cabochon:

To crimp, you need to use a flat-tip pliers. Ideally, the nylon flat tip pliers will not damage your delicate cabochons. You can also add a Tool Magic coating to the tip of your classic flat nose pliers. This product, once dry, forms a rubber film around your pliers and also helps to avoid marking your metal primers and damaging your cabochons.