Adventures at the Bench
Tricks to Overcome a Jeweler’s Daily Challenges
by Jurgen J. Maerz
Renowned platinumsmith Jurgen J. Maerz offers his best bench tricks—from innovative uses for clothespins and table salt to ingenious homemade tools—and relates lessons learned from his earliest days as an apprentice. He also provides illustrated step-by-step guides on everything from the basics of fabricating platinum sheet, alloy, and chain to using the jeweler’s newest best friend, the laser. Based on his popular column in MJSA Journal. Price: $34.95. MJSA member price: $29.50.
"This book is full of clever tips, shortcuts, and homemade tools … Read through this book, and see if you aren’t amazed at the information it holds." Alan Revere, founder Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts
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About the Author
An internationally recognized expert on platinum, Jurgen J. Maerz served for 13 years as director of technical education for Platinum Guild International USA. A veteran of the industry since 1961, he has taught seminars internationaly, and was the fourth jeweler in the United States to receive the designation JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler. He is also the author of The Platinum Bench (MJSA Press, 2001), and his articles have appeared worldwide in numerous publications (including MJSA Journal).
At a Glance
Publication date: 2006
ISBN 978-0-9713495-7-5
Softcover, perfectbound
112 pages
More than 350 full-color photographs
Bench resources section
Sample Tips
Click on the links below to download a pdf
Making a Pt Wire Bracelet with a Slip Lock
Identifying the Size of a Square Ring
Additional Sample Topics
Making Instant Magnetic Bur Holders
Gaining Bur Control
Making Equally Sized Round Beads
Soldering a Wedding Set Cleanly
A Handy Way to Clean Diamonds
A Quick Trick for Mixing Investment
Eliminating Porosity Damage
Using Coils to Bend Tubing
Making a Multi-Grit Sanding Stick
Creating a Texture Strip
Flotation Devices for the Ultrasonic
Making a Platinum Chain
Making Platinum Sheet
Making Platinum Tubing
Sizing a Platinum Ring with a Laser
Using a Laser to Install Gemstones
Making a Cast Platinum and Pearl Pendant
Replacing a Worn-out Ring Top
Creating an Etched Platinum Tie Tack
Pavé Setting with a Homemade Drill
PLUS: Jurgen’s Bench Tales