Bezel Setting an Opal

• 1
  Opal ringopal ring image by Edsweb from Fotolia.com
  
  Choose an appropriate setting, such as earrings or a pendant, in gold or silver for the opal.
  
  
• 2). Measure a length of 1/2mm thick bezel strip in gold or silver, to fit around the opal. Cut the strip to length with pliers.
  
  
• 3). Press the bezel strip firmly around the opal. Use the burnisher or the pliers to press the bezel strip to the opal as tightly as possible, to ensure there are no gaps. The bezel is now fitted to the opal.
  
  
• 4). Remove the opal and solder the ends of the bezel together using the mini torch.
  
  
• 5). Create a support ring to hold the opal at the proper height inside the bezel. Place the support ring inside the bezel to ensure proper fit.
  
  
• 6). Line the inside of the bezel with bead epoxy and fit the opal inside. Ensure that it sits at a proper height and adjust the support ring as needed. Let it stand and dry.
  
  
• 7). Secure the bezel to the remaining settings specific to earrings, pendant or ring as preferred.
  
  

Blackening the Opal

• 1). Determine if it shines best with a clear or blackened back, prior to setting the opal.
  
  
• 2). To do so, drop the opal on a mirror and allow the light to play on it. Then, stroke black fingernail polish on the back and compare how the light plays with the blackened back. Choose the version which gives heightened colors and shine.
  
  
• 3). Apply black epoxy to the back of the opal if the blackened version is preferable.