"but how can I ball the second end of the wire to trap the bead in the ring band without frying the bead?" very carefully. ;-) Some stones can be heated incredibly hot, some don't do well with much heat at all. But even for ones that can't you can protect the stone with commerical products, burying it in pumice, or other ...

There are some sources (and recipes) listed in the book: Japanese Patinas by Eitoku Sugimori Not sure about cold enamelling.......although I think there is some info in one of Carles Codina's books. I'd have to check at home...

You are welcome Anne! Hans is great and has some fab-o tutorials on his site. :)   (sorry I didn't get back to you sooner....)

You can insert a tightly fit copper wire inside, bend, then place the entire thing in ferrich chloride which will dissolve the copper....

VERY lovely!!  She will look gorgeous wearing it I'm sure!

ARGH! I can't get flickr at work! Will look later.

Love them Debbie! Nice work. :)

Try this instead: http://www.meevis.com/jewelery-making-class-making-six-claw-collet.htm  Hans is a great teacher. I believe the holder you reference would be used in a similar way if I am understanding it correctly. Hans just does it without the holder. Good luck!

Thanks so much Joyce!!  I appreciate the confidence boost! :)

Thanks Lori - I appreciate that! ((hugs))