How do you set gemstones into (ultra small) CAD-created claws? => 12 photos

 These photos were from some of the past setting jobs that I encountered. On a "Scale of Difficulty" many of them rate at 7 on a 10 Scale.

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  I selected from this group (pile) of diamonds, the largest and then the smallest. The largest stones were for the top of the letter "T" and also the downward sections of "B" & "O". The remainder were put anywhere I could find easy access to the mini-claws.

 Another setting project required (again) two groups of stones. I set the largest stones as seen in this photo on the curves and the 'joining of lines'.

 Basically, the 'rule of thumb' is to place the largest stones around the curves. The remainder could be set near the end of each row of the claws.

 

  These mini-claws have just one problem, the "Double Claws" are too close together. For this reason, I chose to use my bud-shaped bur to remove some of the metal with this design. => :O: :O: :O: <=

  The same (repairing) process needed to be used before setting any stones with this same problem.

    It is more difficult to grind away any metal  ONLY IF THE STONES ARE ALREADY SET.

 The setting process starts with the inner section then followed by the outer circle of claws. This method prevents any damage to the teeth of the burs.

  

  This finished pendant has been completed. Each stone is sufficiently secured by only two claws

    The larger diamonds MUST BE SET FIRST. The two claws should be set with the corner claws being moved over the Girdle of the stone. For this reason, there is greater security in holding the stone in place. 

Another reason is that the 'hand-pushing' won't interfere with the two claws belonging to the stone.

 

   

  The first series of stones to set is the outside and inner ring of claws. It is advisable to grind a space with a tapered 'bud-shaped bur' in between these 'tightly knit' claws. This leads to sufficient space between the claws.  

   Please first set the stones in the mini-claw setting. Have the mini-claw setting polished first and then solder the main 4-claw Oval Setting & Pear Shaped setting into the centre cavity. 

   The largest (3 diamonds) series of stones on each side should be set initially. Once this is completed, then follow through with the series of smaller stones.

 

  Draw a pattern on paper as to where the many series of stones will be set. This will act as a guide for you! With this ring, there are many sizes to consider in a stone setting. After each series, please make sure that all of the 'polishing and cleaning' have been done.

  The gemstone setting process seems tedious to the uninitiated, but it's necessary to 'think and plan ahead', lest you run into problems.