What Is a Ring Mandrel Sizer Used For?
The ring mandrel sizer is perhaps one of the most useful tools for crafting, re-shaping and sizing of jewelry. Ring mandrels come in different shapes, sizes and materials. Each mandrel is made for one or more special purposes in jewelry crafting. You'll recognize a ring mandrel sizer by its cylindrical shape and special markings.
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Definition
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A ring mandrel sizer usually looks like a cone or a cylinder and has ring sizing marks on it, much like the marks on a measuring bowl. These marks indicate the ring size number or indicate the diameter by centimeters. Jewelers and artisans likely own several types of ring mandrel sizers, depending on what type of ring they are designing, selling or re-sizing.
Uses
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Although the most common type of ring mandrel sizer is used to shape a ring to a certain size or to determine the size of a ring already made, there are other uses for ring mandrel sizers.
Ring mandrel sizers can be used to hold a ring or multiple rings for display, or to even provide stability while polishing a ring. Mandrels can also be used to help determine the ring size of someone who isn't present at the jewelry store. For example, a man who wants to surprise his wife or girlfriend may sneak off with one of her rings and take it to a jeweler. The jeweler places it on a mandrel to help the man get the correct size for his surprise.
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Types
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Three common types of ring mandrel sizers are the indexing ring mandrel, the calibrated ring mandrel and the stepped ring mandrel.
The indexing ring mandrel has additional markings to help the jeweler set the ring. He can use the special markings to ensure each stone is centered and placed in the correct position.
The calibrated ring mandrel has ring size markings on one side of the cylinder; the other size has markings to help him determine the size of the ring's shank (the side part of the ring that connects to the setting).
The stepped ring mandrel is especially useful when making wide band rings. Instead of a gradual cylinder shape, the cylinder is segmented into steps. The artisan uses one step per ring to ensure the inside diameter is consistently sized.
Materials
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Ring mandrel sizers are usually constructed from metal, such as steel or aluminum, but can also come in plastic and wood. Metal sizers are the most durable and are used when hammering jewelry into a particular shape or size. Plastic or wood mandrel sizers are popular for general sizing uses. They are also inexpensive and are popular for displaying or holding jewelry while polishing. Wood sizers are not recommended for determining someone's ring size.
Where to Buy
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A craft store or jewelry supply store likely carries the type of ring mandrel sizer you want. For a wider selection, check out contenti.com--a large jewelry supply site that carries each of the types of mandrels referenced in this article. If unsure of the type of ring mandrel sizer you need for purposes, ask your jeweler for a demonstration.
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