Abstract: A method of forming a bezel that contacts and/or substantially envelops a gem without altering the same is presented. A replica of the gem is initially formed about which a temporary bezel is crafted having the desired artistic markings thereon. In a lost wax process, the temporary bezel is replaced by a permanent bezel. Then the replica is destroyed. In another aspect of the present invention, a replica mold material for use in this process is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of making jewelry or the like to enhance the retention of a gem to a retaining bezel area of the jewelry, comprising the steps of obtaining and utilizing the gem as a model initially, casting the gem in a moldable material, allowing the moldable material to set, dividing the set moldable material into segments to expose the gem, thereby providing a recess in at least two divided moldable material segments thus formed, removing the gem to expose the recesses, casting into the recesses a material which is soluble in the presence of a fluid so that the cast material has an external configuration of the gem when set, allowing the cast material to set, removing the cast material from the recesses of the moldable material, crafting a temperature sensitive substance about the cast material to form the bezel area and attendant jewelry, removing the set soluble material in the presence of the fluid, vaporizing the temperature sensitive substance with molten material using a lost wax process, allowing the molt