How To Set Gemstones In Claw Settings

Claw settings offer an alternative to the usual bezel style cabochon gemstone settings as well as a beautiful way to set a faceted gemstone. These settings are great if you don't want to or do not have time to make your own stone settings. They are perfect for turning into rings, earrings, pendants and brooches. We supply claw settings for both gemstone cabochons and faceted stones.

The following step by step instructions show how to set a faceted gemstones in a clawed ring setting.

Some claw settings are also suitable for setting cabochon stones. Instead of cutting notches in the claws (which are to fit over the angled sides of a faceted stone), you would want to file the claws so they are are more flexible and easy to bend over the dome shape of the cabochon stone.

Recommended Tools

• Claw setting
• Needle files
• Pusher
• Burnisher

Optional

• Side cutters
• Burrs
• Graver
• Stone setting pliers
• Ring clamp

Step 1

Whilst holding the ring in a clamp and place the faceted gemstone in position. If necessary ease the claws out to allow the stone to sit at the correct depth or alternatively remove some of the metal from inside the setting using a suitable sized burr.

If the claws are too long they may be cut to the required length using side cutters or saw.

Step 2

The following images will show you the principals of the techniques to adjust the setting to fit your stone and then set the stone in place.

You will want to remove the stone from the setting so you don't damage it whilst cutting and filing the claws, but remember to keep checking the fit of the stone in the setting as you go. Using a needle file, graver or burr, cut a fine groove in the claw where the girdle of the gemstone touches the claws.

Step 3

File the top of the claws to an angle of about 45 degrees using a needle file.

Keep checking your stone in the setting so you don't remove too much metal by mistake.

Filing the claws so the metal is thinner will make it easier to ease the claws over the stone.

Step 4

Without using any undue force place the stone into position making sure that it is level.

Using a pusher or stone setting pliers gently ease the claws over until the gemstone is sitting level and is held firmly in place.

Step 5

Finally ease over the tops of the claws so that they are flush with the top of the gemstone, being careful not to mark the stone. File away any sharp edges and shape the claws to give a smooth round finish.

Explore Our Claw Ring Settings

Shop our range of claw ring settings to use with your favourite faceted stones. These ring settings are aimed for experienced jewellers, as they will need adjusting and depending on the stone will need notches to secure the stone in place.

Claw Pendant Setting

This beginner friendly pendant has a lovely classic setting. The claws on these pendants are not pre-notched and are light enough to be bent over the stone to secure it in place.

Shop Faceted Stones

Explore our wide range of gemstone faceted stones to use with our range of faceted stone settings.

Claw Settings For Cabochon Stones

These simple sterling silver claw settings are available in a range of sizes and a great alternative to a bezel setting. Simply use a pusher to push the claws over your chosen cabochon stone and solder onto your design. 

Shop Cabochons

Choose from over 500 beautiful gemstone cabochons to use in your handmade jewellery designs. Don't forget to check out our cabochon settings too!

HAVE A QUESTION?

If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team who will be more than happy to give you advice over email or on the phone.

You can learn more and find inspiration by visiting our Jewellery Making Tutorials, Jewellery Making Kits and YouTube Channel. Don't forget to follow us on social media and tag us in your designs on Instagram & Facebook, we would love to see!