[Jewelry making - Article 00321] - Re: [Orchid] Enameled cab crack after setting

[Donna Wilson]

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>     I have read that a finished "jewel" can crack much later after
>     finishing successfully. In other words, can one make the enameled
>     cab and wait a certain length of time, after which cracking should
>     not occur, and then make the setting? 

    I think the cracking can depend on many factors...thickness of
    enamel on the surface being a major one. Is the counter enamel as
    thick as the top surface, have any "extras" like lumps been added?
    Could the piece have been bumped by something sharp? Could a little
    "crunch" have happened at the bottom edge of the cab while rolling
    the bezel? I have pieces which are 3 or 4 years old and never
    cracked. I've never had any returned to me for cracking, either. I
    think it's a good idea to have the piece properly protected in your
    design so that the edge isn't too vulnerable...so maybe a flange
    around your back plate. 

Donna in VA
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