How to Make a Hand-Cut Sterling Silver Pendant

Materials and Tools:

scrap paper
pencil
rubber cement
sterling silver sheet
sterling silver clasp
jeweler's saw
fine saw blades
drill
needle file
sandpaper
wax block
abrasive sponge
ear wires
leather cord

Steps:

1. Design your piece with pencil on paper. Make a pattern, then glue the pattern onto the sterling sheet silver with rubber cement.

2. Drill a hole in each negative space in the pattern.

3. Feed saw blade into each drilled hole and cut out the inside of the shape with a jeweler's saw. Repeat cutting until the piece is completely cut out.

4. File outside edge of silver. Sand with sandpaper.

5. Hammer the silver in a block of wax to give it shape.

6. Apply matte finish to silver with abrasive sponge.

7. Add ear wires or leather cord and a sterling silver clasp.