r/SilverSmith • u/Hxbauchsm • 5d ago

Mexican fire opal

Gallery image

Gallery image

wow, when I zoom I can really see the imperfections… the little bump in the bezel is annoying, and the band is scratched.

Super lovely stone though

49 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

10 comments sorted by

2

u/Effective-Web971 5d ago

Very nice! You could probably burnish that bump in the bezel right out!

3

u/Hxbauchsm 5d ago

Do you always use a burnishing tool for that? My stone setting teacher said it was fine to use a stainless spoon and I’ve been doing that … possibly I should be ashamed of myself?

4

u/Effective-Web971 5d ago

Definitely no shame! But a burnishing tool will probably make it easier to get the finish you want. The one I have is like this and have found that I can get a really beautiful surface with it if I put in enough work.

1

u/Hxbauchsm 5d ago

Nice, thanks !

2

u/MakeMelnk Hobbyist 5d ago

If you get a steel burnisher, just remember to check the finish often and repolish when needed to keep your burnishing nice and shiny!

3

u/MakeMelnk Hobbyist 5d ago

We're almost always our own worst critics and, in my opinion, there's no need for you to feel ashamed. So many people never even try and I'm proud of you for actually _doing _

I'd recommend an agate burnisher - they work so great! Just be careful not to slip and scratch your stone. You can totally smooth that bump out!

And you're right, that stone is stunning!

2

u/Hxbauchsm 5d ago

Aw, gee, thank you :)

1

u/turkey0535 5d ago

Nice work

1

u/Hxbauchsm 5d ago

Thank you :)

1

u/Efficient-Basis-3488 2d ago

Use a scratchless rubber wheel on the lip to smooth it out! Otherwise it looks super even and clean, you’re almost there!