CBJ Quality Assurance and Improvement 3

Question 1

In quality control, what does 'tolerance' refer to in the context of stone setting?

Accepted Answer

The allowable range of variation in a measurement or fit

Answer

The maximum amount of inclusions acceptable in a gemstone

Answer

The chemical resistance of the metal to cleaning agents

Answer

The number of prongs required per carat weight

Question 2

What does a 'figure-8' motion during hand polishing accomplish that a straight stroke does not?

Accepted Answer

It prevents directional scratching and produces a more even finish

Answer

It removes metal faster from high spots

Answer

It heats the metal more evenly for better compound adhesion

Answer

It allows the jeweler to detect porosity by feel

Question 3

Why should a finished piece be inspected under both direct and raking light?

Accepted Answer

Raking light highlights surface scratches and texture flaws invisible under direct light

Answer

Direct light checks color; raking light checks karat content

Answer

Direct light is used for gemstones; raking light is used for metal only

Answer

Both are required to satisfy GIA grading standards

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the quality standard for a channel-set row of stones?

Accepted Answer

All stones should sit at a uniform height with consistent spacing

Answer

Stones may vary slightly in height as long as they are secure

Answer

Every other stone may be slightly recessed for visual effect

Answer

Stones should be flush with the channel rail on one side only

Question 5

What is the correct procedure if a prong tip cracks during the burnishing process?

Accepted Answer

Apply flux and re-solder the tip, then re-burnish gently

Answer

Continue burnishing and polish over the crack

Answer

Replace the stone and rebuild the entire setting

Answer

File the crack smooth and apply rhodium plating

Question 6

When evaluating a pavé-set piece, which quality indicator is checked first?

Accepted Answer

That every stone is secure with no rocking or spinning

Answer

The brightness and cut grade of each stone

Answer

The uniformity of the bead size across the surface

Answer

Whether the metal has been rhodium plated uniformly

Question 7

Which finishing step should always be performed before rhodium plating a white gold piece?

Accepted Answer

Thorough polishing and ultrasonic cleaning to remove all surface contaminants

Answer

Laser welding any surface pits

Answer

Applying a firescale inhibitor coating

Answer

Annealing the metal to relieve internal stress