Bezel Project

1. Bezel Project

2. What is a bezel, you ask? • Bezels in jewelry have a few definitions but basically they are a band of thin metal that supports and protects a gem or stone.

3. Step one - Identify the problem • Make a jewellery object using the bezel making techniques taught in class. • There will be a few choices in this project. This will give you plenty of ideas to make an interesting and original piece of jewelry that you should be proud to wear or give as a gift.

4. Step two – Brainstorm- the nextstep is to get a bunch of ideas.

5. The third step of the design process is… • Think about your ability, the equipment and materials available, time constraints and ….

6. Design • Draw at least 3 different ideas. • Use the elements of design: • Point, line, shape…(check your journal for the others) • Once you have at least 3 different ideas, choose one and start perfecting it, and thinking about construction details. • Make a good copy with at least 2 views of the finished project.

7. Prefect your favorite idea. Draw it in full scale from as many views as possible.

8. There are many different ways to draw: • Mechanically: • Orthographic or isometric • Freehand sketching • Tracing • You need to choose a way that you enjoy that expresses your designs well.

9. Step four - Build • Remember when you are soldering, use: • Hard solder to make the bezel • Medium solder to attach the bezel to the backing plate • Easy solder to connect any other parts.

10. Final step - Evaluation • Your part – ask yourself some questions • Do you like it? • Is there anything you could improve on it? • What worked really well? • My part – give you a mark • Design 10 • Originality 20 • Quality of construction 50 • Quality of finish 20