How do I turn this into a pendant?

Question

Hi. I want to purchase this wonderful cameo (see link below post) but it's already set in a frame. But the thing is, I want to use it as a pendant. There's no hole on top. How do I turn this into a pendant? Do I need to do some soldering? If so, how? In addition, can you recommend some tutorials for setting cameos and cabochons? Thanks in advance. Happy holidays! :)

http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=85235s5&s=1

The back of the setting is set in flatback.

The cab is already set in a frame that's flatback.

Answer 1

I can't get the pic to load, but here are some suggestions:
Is there a large enough space on top to drill a hole in the frame? If so, drill one and attach a jump ring.
Is the cameo actually set in the frame, or just glued in? If it's set, you should be able to gently pry back the bezel and pop it out. If it's glued, you may be able to use a solvent, but make sure whatever you use doesn't dissolve the cameo, too.
I advise against soldering, primarily because you run the risk of damaging the cameo if you heat it up. If it's actually set in the frame, you can remove the stone and solder, but if you can't get the stone out, this is not your best option.
Generally speaking, for setting cameos and cabs, your best bet will be a bezel setting. You can make your own, or you can buy them premade from jewelry suppliers. If you have fairly standard stone and feel a bit lazy, the premade ones are the way to go. All you have to do is pop in your stone and push the bezel over it.

Answer 2

There are a a bazillion places you can find answers - like go to your local library and get a book or beadwork magazine!
Or you could try going to About.com/beadwork or jewelry -- they have all sorts of free tutorials/links for beading around a cab... You will probably have to glue it first to a piece of heavy felt or leather, trim the edges, and then bead around the outside edges.... and then add a necklace or whatever. There are about a trillion ways to do this, so I would highly suggest you go to the library or local craft store like Michaels. JoAnns, Hobby Lobby and look through some of their booklets, at least, if not from the library!

By the way - do you know what the BACK of this pendant is - like flat, concave or whatever? Or is the cab already "set" inside an entire frame with a flat back??!! This is a very important item that would dictate entirely how you would handle this peice.

Also -- www.shipwreckbeads.com has all sorts of free info and ideas - give them a try!

Good luck!

Answer 3

Since this is such a precious cameo, I would recommend taking it to a jeweler and having a loop clasp soldered on the back. I have several pins with this on the back. The loop opens up somewhat like a lobster claw. It allows you to attach it to almost any size chain.