Various embodiments of the invention relate to a method for making an article of jewelry, the method may comprise, but is not limited to, mixing zirconia and a binder to form a mixture, heating the mixture, applying a pressure to the mixture to place the mixture in a mold to form a molded body, and applying heat to the molded body in a controlled atmosphere to at least partially remove the binder from the molded body. The method may further comprise forming at least one hole extending completely through the molded body, the at least one hole for inserting at least one stone setting or a housing for the stone setting.