<> <> <> <> <> <> <> E-BENCH <> <> <> <> <> <> <>
A New Method of Learning in a New Millennium
June 2001
Volume 2 Issue 6
circulation over 1,000
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<> <> <> <> ABOUT THIS NEWSLETTER <> <> <> <>
E-BENCH is a FREE monthly newsletter for
Retail Jewelry Store
Owners, Shop Managers, Bench Jewelers,
and Anyone Else That Is
Interested.
We encourage you to forward this newsletter to anyone that
you
think may benefit from it, provided that you forward all of it
without
modification and not just portions of it.
This document
may NOT be distributed for profit. E-BENCH is a copyrighted
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confidential and is not shared with anyone for any reason.
E-BENCH is sent to you each month FREE of charge
because of the generous support of our SPONSORS.
Please support them with your purchases.
Thanks – Bradney W. Simon CMBJ, CMP
=================================================
<> <> <> <> <> PLATINUM SPONSOR <> <> <> <> <>
GESSWEIN & Co, Inc.
Tools, Equipment, and Supplies for Jewelry Manufacturing
Since 1914
> > > Gesswein 2000 Jewelers' Catalog < < <
Gesswein's CD Rom full-color jewelers' catalog features
over
10,000 tools, equipment, and supplies for the jewelry
manufacturing industry. In it, you will find everything you need
for making and repairing jewelry.
Don't miss out!
E-Mail Gesswein at info@gesswein.com for your free CD Rom
an absolute must have for finding "The Right Tools"
Or if you prefer, browse through Gesswein's Web Site:
The Right Tools – Are Right Here
=================================================
<> <> <> <> <> TABLE OF CONTENTS <> <> <> <> <>
RUN YOUR SHOP WITHOUT IT RUNNING YOU
A feature article on shop management issues
QUOTES WORTH RE-QUOTING
Motivational insights from some of the best
SIMON SEZ
See and hear Bradney W. Simon in person
REVERE FINDING TIPS
This new column contains useful tips to help you find things in
the studio from Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts
TRADE SECRETS
Tips and Tricks to make your work on the bench a little
easier
and more productive
ON THE BENCH
Learn a new technique or brush up on basic skills with
this
feature article.
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If you like E-BENCH
You’ll LOVE BENCH
A new print magazine for bench jewelers.
BENCH magazine a new quarterly publication from B W Simon
is Written BY Bench Jewelers FOR Bench Jewelers. Each issue
will be filled with high-quality instructional articles enhanced by
line drawings, color renderings, or photographs from a variety of
actual jewelers. Subjects covered will include new technologies
such as laser welding and CAD, as well as traditional techniques
in jewelry repair, fabrication, casting, and stone setting. In
addition, each issue will contain motivational quotes, and bench
tips. Subscriptions will be free to jewelers in the USA and
Canada, and $40 per year for overseas delivery.
To subscribe:
US or Canada - send a post card with your name and complete
mailing address to:
BENCH
1066 Hopkins St.
Spartanburg, SC 29307
Overseas – send your check for $40 US along with your
complete mailing address to:
BENCH
1066 Hopkins St.
Spartanburg, SC 29307
USA
The first issue will be mailed mid August.
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<> <> RUN YOUR SHOP WITHOUT IT RUNNING YOU <> <>
The Master's Touch
The difference between a Master Jeweler and an average
jeweler is not so much learning advanced techniques as it is a
mastery over the basic ones. For example, there is little
difference between the soldering technique in the most complex
hand fabricated item of jewelry and sizing a ring. What sets the
Master's work apart is the meticulous execution of those basic
techniques.
The downfall of many bench jewelers is not a lack of skills, but a
lack of determination and discipline to practice and fine tune
those skills to the degree of workmanship deserving the title of
Master. Often what hinders our progress is not a lack of
knowledge, but the apathy towards accomplishing our work that
we have allowed to creep in. Over the years, it is easy to allow
bad habits to develop; to hurry through our work or skip certain
steps. To overcome this takes practice. Just like a sports player
will practice before performing on the playing field, or a musician
will practice before performing on stage, you need to continually
practice before performing at the bench.
When was the last time that you did an actual practice exercise
where you worked on a certain project just to develop a skill,
then critically examined the results to find areas that need
improving, and then practiced more to improve? (It is not
practice that makes perfect, but perfect practice that makes
perfect.)
Why not commit a little time each week just to the development
of your skills. Get back to the basics and practice those
fundamental techniques that seem so simple and easy - those
basic procedures that take only a few days to learn, but a lifetime
to master. Remember, it is not the techniques that set the
master apart but the meticulous execution of those
techniques that does.
This is not to say knowledge and understanding of skills is
unimportant. It is just that often all we seek is new knowledge to
overcome a problem when what we need at the bench is
development of the knowledge we already have.
Certainly, learning a helpful tip or a new trick can help anyone
perform better work. However, unless and until the basic
techniques are practiced and mastered can these new
applications be preformed with the perfection deserving a Master
Craftsman title. To accomplish this, spend less time trying to
learn new tricks and spend more time mastering basic skills.
Strive to accomplish the work of a master. This is a worthy goal
of any jeweler regardless of where they are in the development
of their career. Practice each technique and develop every skill
with the standard in mind that this is the work of a true master.
Even if this ultimate goal is never achieved, the striving after it,
the reaching toward it, will create in you a better craftsman.
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<> <> <> <> <> <> GOLD SPONSOR <> <> <> <> <> <>
Impact Specialties
Introducing our new form filling and repair management
software
> > > Impact Repairware Software < < <
We have developed this new software to be used in conjunction
with our laser repair envelopes, cut sheets and cards. This
software will enable jewelers to computerize their process.
Impact Repairware features repair location tracking, parts and
inventory database, customer database, special occasion
tracking and a variety of reports. It is available in single user or
multi user and features a watch repair and jewelry repair form.
Impact Repairware can be used to provide estimates, appraisals
and receipts.
For more information or to receive a FREE trial disk, visit us at
http://www.isiprint.com or call Impact at 800 – 543 – 4264
Impact – For All Your Jewelry Store Form Needs
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<> <> <> <> QUOTES WORTH RE-QUOTING <> <> <> <>
Teamwork is the fuel that allows common people to attain
uncommon results.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Greatness is not in where we stand, but in what direction we are
moving. We must sail sometimes with the wind and sometimes
against it – but sail we must, and not drift, nor lie at anchor.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
There is never a crowd on the extra mile.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Shoot for the moon.
Even if you miss, you will land among the stars.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The sea is dangerous and its storms terrible, but these obstacles
have never been sufficient reason to remain ashore… unlike the
mediocre, intrepid, spirits seek victory over those things that
seem impossible… it is with an iron will that they embark on the
most daring of all endeavors… to meet the shadowy future
without fear and conquer the unknown
Ferdinand Magellan
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of
fools will suffer harm. Adversity pursues sinners, but the
righteous will be rewarded with prosperity.
King Solomon -
Proverbs 13:20,21
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<> <> <> <> <> SIMON SEZ SEMINARS <> <> <> <> <>
Bradney W. Simon is an accomplished platform speaker;
providing Keynote Speeches, and Educational Seminars.
For information on having him speak
for your organization log
onto; http://www.BWSimon.com
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
> > > > IJO Conference < < < <
August 4 - 8, 2001
Bradney Simon will conduct seminars and Bench
Demonstrations
at the Independent Jewelers Organization
Show in Salt Lake City.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
> > > > New Hampshire Jewelers Association < < < <
September 15, 2001
Bradney Simon will be presenting Trade Secrets – Tips Tricks
and Techniques of a Master Jeweler.
For more information call Paul Richter 603-437-2655
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
> > > > Two Great Seminars for Jewelers < < < <
=> Run Your Shop Without It Running You
This seminar will help jewelers increase profits by
operating
an efficient jewelry repair shop. It contains innovative and
practical
information that you can use in your store. Topics
include: Pricing, Take-In
Procedures, Productivity in the Shop,
Employee Development, and Much
More.
=> Trade Secrets
Tips, Tricks, & Techniques of a
Master Jeweler
Making and repairing jewelry encompasses only a few basic
techniques. However, there are numerous tricks to use in
mastering those techniques. In this interactive seminar you will
learn tips, tricks, and techniques on jewelry repair, fabrication,
and stone setting from a JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler.
“No matter how much one knows it is always enlightening and
stimulating to sit back and listen to a Master share his own
personal tips. This
is an excellent presentation.”
Alan Revere – Revere Academy of Jewelry
Arts
To see what others are saying about this seminar go to:
http://www.bwsimon.com/Testimonials/TradeSecretsSeminar.htm
#################################
> > > > Attend Both Seminars < < < <
Run Your Shop on Friday and Trade Secrets on Saturday
Seattle WA < > September 7 & 8, 2001
Chicago IL < > September 28 & 29, 2001
For additional information on these seminars or to register go to
http://www.bwsimon.com/SimonSezSeminars/simon_sez.htm
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<> <> <> <> <> <> GOLD SPONSOR <> <> <> <> <> <>
HAVE YOU INVENTED A NEW PRODUCT
OR INNOVATIVE IDEA?
Now you can have it evaluated by professional marketing
experts.
MVI Marketing LTD., THE Market Intelligence Company for the
Worldwide Gem and Jewelry Industries, is now offering its
unique NEW PRODUCT EVALUATION (NPE) directly to bench
jewelers and independent retailers.
MVI’s NPE will review your innovation in complete confidence
and provide you with a report, honestly evaluating its commercial
potential and marketing options.
MVI is the only business consulting organization working
exclusively in the worldwide gem and jewelry industries. For
more information about MVI’s New Product Evaluation visit us at
www.mvimarketing.com or email us at info@mvimarketing.com
=================================================
<> <> <> <> <> REVERE FINDING TIPS <> <> <> <> <>
Here are some useful tips to help you find things in the studio
from Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts
Finding pieces of solder
By Alan Revere
When you first get a new piece of sheet solder color code it. Use
Sharpie permanent marking pens to completely cover both sides:
red for hard, black for medium and blue for easy. Then when
you cut snippets you can easily locate them if they drop into your
tray as well as identify their melting temperature. The ink
disappears without a trace when heated during soldering. Do
this on all your solders; color coding wire solder and even tubes
of paste solder.
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<> <> <> <> <> TRADE SECRETS <> <> <> <> <>
Take a warm ball of Jett Sett (the plastic substitute for shellac)
and place in a 2” X 3” plastic bag. Spread it out to fill the bag
approximately one sixteenth inch thick, then fold the bag in half
to 2” X 1 1/2 “. When hardened trim off the top of the bag. Then,
when you have a ring shank or other jewelry that is too thin to
hold tightly, place the jewelry between the two halves of the bag
and insert in your ring clamp.
John Cothern
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
When a customer brings in a coin pendant with the screw
stripped, clean the threads from the pendant with a Krause bur
then fit a wire in the hole and rivet it closed.
Do Not solder the wire in, actually rivet the ends down. The
tubes are soldered to the frame and will move or come off easily
if you try to solder the wire in. Also if the customer ever wants to
change the coin you can cut the rivet head off and replace the
rivet.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
If a coin is loose in a coin frame, take a piece of wire and roll it
out with a rolling mill. Then cut pieces to wedge between the
coin and the frame. The length of piece and thickness depends
on how loose the coin is.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
To keep from marring a coin when pushing down on the tabs to
hold them in, make a pusher by inserting a wooden dowel rod in
a graver handle, or make a pusher from the plastic handle of a
tooth brush.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
When setting a colored center stone with side diamonds, make
certain that the diamonds do not touch the center stone. If one
of the diamonds come loose and rubs against the center stone, it
will cut a groove into the stone.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Place a millgrain wheel in the handpiece of a Gravermeister,
GraverMax, or GraverMate. This makes it easier to use and
you will be more efficient.
Blaine Lewis – New Approach School for Jewelers
http://www.newapproachschool.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
If you have a tip you would like to share with our readers send it
in an e-mail to mailto:Brad@BWSimon.com
=================================================
<> <> <> <> <> <> GOLD SPONSOR <> <> <> <> <> <>
CEIA USA
CEIA specializes in the manufacture of Ultrasonic Cleaning
Machines and Medium Frequency Induction Melters.
CEIA Ultrasonics are designed using the latest technologies.
The high efficiency of the generator and the absence of moving
mechanical parts guarantee the machine an extremely long
lifetime. All functions are microprocessor controlled which allows
for adjustable cavitation, temperature and time.
Call us for a free trial.
CEIA Induction melters have achieved widespread recognition in
the field of precious metal casting. All functions of the furnaces
are microcomputer controlled. Digitally adjustable power gives
the possibility to optimize melting times. CEIA melters offer
speed of melting, purity of the alloy and very low cooling water
consumption.
CEIA USA
Tel: 609-631-8802
Email: jbruns@ceia-usa.com Web Page http://www.ceia.net
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<> <> <> <> <> ON THE BENCH <> <> <> <> <> <>
Maintenance Do's - Don'ts For Your Ultrasonic Cleaner
By Ken Kotoski
I would first like to clarify how an ultrasonic cleaner works. The
ultrasonic produces ultrasound waves. Ultrasound is not
audible. The ultrasound waves are very high frequency waves
that are transmitted into the solution and are responsible for
“tearing” apart the dirt and grime. The statement that tiny air
bubbles are responsible for cleaning is not accurate. Actually,
air in the liquid hinders any cleaning. You may notice after
placing fresh tap water into an ultrasonic that a lot of air will be
forced out of the water right away. As all of the air is removed,
the ultrasonic will clean better. Anything you put into the
ultrasonic that is not a rigid solid (for example plastic) will greatly
reduce the cleaning ability. That is why glass beakers and steel
trays and baskets are used. They pass the ultrasonic wave right
on through without impeding them.
Don't drop anything heavy on the bottom of the tank. The
transducers are ceramic crystals that are fragile. They can be
broken if this happens. Other ways crystals get broken include
running the cleaner with little or no solution in the tank. In
addition, when changing the solution be sure the old solution has
cooled down before replacing it. When an ultrasonic has been
running the transducers get hot and if they are suddenly cooled it
can crack them.
I understand that equipment upkeep is time consuming, but it is
essential to the overall longevity of your equipment. As with all
equipment regular service and/or care needs to be done. An
ultrasonic should be wiped down with a water-moistened cloth
each day to remove the soap that has been splashed and
dripped. Most soaps are caustic and if left on the unit will start to
eat away the metal parts. In addition, if they are allowed to build
up they can eventually get to the circuit board and cause short
circuits. When cleaning the unit DO NOT ever put it under water
(running or otherwise). The ultrasonics are not sealed and when
water gets inside, it will get to the circuit.
The lack of wiping the unit down daily is the cause of the majority
of ultrasonics failing. This is an ongoing problem that happens
over time, not right away.
When running the cleaner be sure the liquid is at the proper
level. If using a heated unit the liquid should not be less than 1"
below the rim of the tank. The heating elements are placed on
the side of the tanks and on smaller units (less than 1 gal.) the
heating elements normally are about 1" down from the rim. The
heating elements are designed to produce a significant amount
of heat for their size and without the solution covering them they
will burn out. If using an unheated unit the same liquid level is
suggested, however it is not as critical. The level could go down
an inch or so before you endanger the transducers.
The type of solution you use can cause problems for your
ultrasonic. Water with a very little amount of soap is the
recommended solution. Unless you have specifically purchased
a unit from the manufacturer that is made for ammonia or other
degreasers do not use them. The ultrasonics that are sold in the
jewelry and dental industries are not made for it and when
placing ammonia in one, the cleaner will change it into a mild
acid.
When adding soap to the water in the tank it is better to have too
little than too much. The first and most important job of the soap
is to reduce surface tension so the water will degas. Remember,
any trapped gas in the solution will hinder the ultrasonics ability
to work at top efficiency. After degassing, the soap will have
some ability to help clean, however, too much will reduce the
overall effectiveness of the ultrasonic activity. The ultrasonic
action uses the molecules in the solution to clean or tear the dirt
off the item by stretching them and then collapsing them rapidly,
so any trapped gases will act as a cushion and will not allow the
ultrasonic to work as well as it should.
When running your cleaner don't let anything rest on the bottom.
If metal is placed on the bottom of the tank the vibration will
eventually rub a hole in the tank. The last thing you want to
replace on an ultrasonic is the tank. The reason is that you can't
just replace the tank. The transducers have to be replaced as
well - they cannot be salvaged. In addition, baskets that sits on
the bottom of the tank rather than being suspended should not
be used as anything that sits on the bottom of the tank will
reduce the ultrasonic activity as it dampens the ability of the
transducers to move the tank bottom. This will overheat the
transducers, which leads to broken transducers. The best way
to clean parts is to suspend them.
Plastic will absorb the ultrasonic waves, and should not be used
as a container to hold parts in the ultrasonic. The only good
containers are beakers, metal baskets and metal trays. I don't
recommend glass jars because they are not made to withstand
the ultrasound and I wouldn't want anyone to be cut by a glass
container that shattered. Beakers are okay because they are
made to withstand many stresses. Any container has to be 'rigid'
so that it will not absorb the waves and instead allow the waves
to pass right through. This means you shouldn’t use plastic or
rubber items. Another method is to suspend a piece from a wire
or rack hung across the sides of the ultrasonic. Ideally, nothing
should set on the bottom of the tank. The best containers are
those that are suspended from the rim of the ultrasonic. Special
beaker plates are made for suspending them. Trays and baskets
are also made that suspend from the rim of the ultrasonic. You
will always maintain the quality and efficiency of your ultrasonics
cleaning when the transducers are allowed to move the tank
bottom freely.
Always make sure the ground prong on the plug is in good
shape. Don't remove it. It needs to be there for safety. If your
outlet doesn't accept a 3 prong plug change the outlet and make
sure it is grounded.
I would always suggest repairing a piece of equipment rather
than buying a new unit. It will always save you money. I believe
it is in your best interest to buy new equipment only when yours
can't be repaired economically or when a new piece of
equipment does something that your current one does not do or
the new one does it better.
Ken Kotoski is owner of MPG Repair http://www.mpgrepair.com/
You can reach him at ken@mpgrepair.com or call toll free at
877-262-2185
We Repair The Tools Jewelers Use.
=================================================
<> <> <> <> <> SILVER SPONSORS <> <> <> <> <>
Namano / Southeastern Findings
Service to the Manufacturing Jeweler
We are Findings, Diamonds, Wedding Bands, Jewelry Boxes,
Platinum, Batteries, Tools, and So Much More.
Greater Selection - Expanded Inventory - No Minimum Order
Call 1-800-282-8285 or visit us on the World Wide Web
http://www.sefindings.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Jewelry Dealers World Trade Network
http://www.JewelryDealersNetwork.com/
<> <> <> Bench Jeweler Discussion Channel <> <> <>
Ask questions, share tips, and take part in the on going
discussions, or just read and take in all the advice from many
excellent Jewelers from around the world.
Membership includes: Many topical Discussion Channels,
Plus you may buy, sell and trade on the Buy/Sell Channels, Plus
Much More.
List B W Simon as your sponsor on the membership application
and you will receive:
** ** 30 DAYS FREE MEMBERSHIP ** **
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Place Your Ad Here
Over 1,000 Bench Jewelers will see your message, plus it will
remain in our permanent archive at www.BWSimon.com
For Information and rates on placing an Ad Go to:
http://bwsimon.com/E-BENCH/E-BenchSponsors.htm
=================================================
<> <> <> <> <> Thank You for Reading <> <> <> <> <>
We are on the World Wide Web.
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A complete archive of back issues of E-BENCH is located there.
Visit often, as we will be making changes to our site,
adding
additional useful information for bench jewelers.
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+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Information provided in this document is provided ‘As Is’
without
warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. This
publication is designed to
provide accurate and authoritative
information concerning the subject matter
covered. It is provided
with the
understanding that the author or publisher is not
engaged in rendering legal,
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assistance is required,
the services of a competent professional person
should be
sought.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
For editorial suggestions, comments, ideas or
requests,
please send an E-Mail to Bradney W. Simon
mailto:Brad@BWSimon.com
Copyrighted, 2001, B W Simon. All rights reserved.
B W Simon
1066 Hopkins St.
Spartanburg, SC
29307
864-921-0827
http://www.BWSimon.com