Opal Gemstone Jewelry CuttingDesigningSetting Author:Paul B. Downing Ph.D. Looking for OPAL CUTTING MADE EASY and ADVANCED CUTTING & SETTING? Look no further. Paul Downing has utilized his 40 years as a cutter, designer, teacher and author of these titles as well as OPAL ID & VALUE, to create a book every lapidary enthusiast will want to own. These titles are included in an updated, revised and expanded title. Not ... more »just for the beginner, even advanced cutters will want to learn the tips and tricks included. Easy to follow directions...accompanied by 306 color/ black & white photos and diagrams...take the reader through each gemstone...Agates (moss and lace), Chrysoprase, Lapis, Petrified Wood, Tigereye, and, of course, OPAL! Each stone is taken from its rough stage through the final polishing via step-by-step instructions. Once the stone is complete, the next task of creating a piece of jewelry is approached. Beyond simply buying a commercial setting or having a designer commissioned, an alternative is offered...creating your own lost wax design. Again each step is outlined with photos and diagrams. If you follow along, you will have a piece of jewelry to be proud of. The author is the recipient of numerous cutting awards, is a welcomed lecturer in the industry, and an inductee of the Rockhound and Lapidary Hall of Fame. All of his titles have received high praises for his easy to follow instructions and insights into the field of lapidary.« less