[Jewelry making - Article 01319] - [Orchid] Hardening silver prongs on a mount

[Judy A]

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    I have a problem with a mount for a stone which has very soft prongs
    following soldering into place on a larger silver disc. I could not
    solder from the back of the piece, and thus the prongs have become
    quite soft after soldering because to some extent they were subjected
    to the flame. It is a 4mm setting bought ready made, and is the push
    in type where the prongs are supposed to spring into place after the
    gem has been inserted and pressure applied from the back. I am
    concerned that they are now so soft that they will distort if I try
    to insert the gem using the pressure technique as per the
    instructions with the mount. I obviously cannot harden by beating.
    Has anyone any tips on how I can firm up the prongs? 

    Thanks for all information and experience you may have. 



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