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!