Spacing with drilling of holes. (9 photo's)

 I'm sure that everyone in this 'jewellery community' has drilled holes prior to Bead-Setting of gemstones. 

 Here are my observations on this VERY IMPORTANT topic. These are my methods and with these processes, this is the 'first basic step in Diamond Setting'.

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 If you are setting a large stone (Diamond) have that stone set first. But have that stone set lower than usual, why is this done? When you are using your Onglette & Flat gravers, your tools won't be affected by constantly touching or hitting the large stone.

 In this photo, select the correct sizes and number of stones. My next technique is to be using a bud shaped bur to gently remove the metal in between the holes. This is for a '2-bead process'.

 This photo demonstrates a 'pre-cutting' process, which means all of the 'metal cutting' is done prior to any stone setting.

 'Spacing' is one of the most delicate & important aspects of stone setting without 'ready-made claws'.

 In this repetitive photo, I need to enlighten you in the delicate process of drilling the holes as deep as you can. Having the holes made deep, will prevent any Stone-Culet from touching the metal inside or underneath. 

 Before the stone is ready for setting, completely clean out the holes from any metal particles that might be remaining.

 Here you can observe the '2-bead setting process'. Its far better to have "2 strong beads" than 4 little pieces of metal holding a precious stone, agree with this idea?

 I saw this novel approach in stabilizing diamonds on a wax form. The technician put his stones 'table side down'. This method allowed him to decide where each stone can placed without damaging the metal.

He removed one stone and GENTLY marked the metal prior to the final drilling.

  I'm hoping that essay was a considerable help to you in 'stone spacing'.