Drilling of holes in a new ring => 14 photos

 Why are 'drilling holes' so full of problems? The chances are ruining a new ring can be full of unforeseen errors.

 This essay explains what 'drilling' is all about. There is a lot of thought going on in these few photos, this technique is '8 out of 10' on my Difficulty Scale.

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 Before any holes are drilled there is a great chance even now to have errors. What I suggest is to use a round bur and create an indentation into the metal, why is this so important? 

 When the twist drill starts to pierce the metal, it won't run amok along the curved or flat surface. THIS WILL HAPPEN, trust me!

  Hold the twist drill in a perpendicular position or at a 90-degree angle to the metal.

 It is imperative to have this new hole aimed to be ready for stone opening. I would create a hole that is 75% of the size of the intended stone setting.

  NEVER LEAN THE BUR OPENING AS SEEN IN THIS PHOTO.

 I avoid using a 'bud bur' as this new drilling could leave you with an OVAL or an odd-shaped hole.

 Just to examine how the drilling is continuing, I buff up the metal for a better view. 

 This little technique is only to see where the holes are drilled.

 Before any holes are drilled, I make a habit of 'inking' where every new hole will be made. 

 Added Drilling notes!

NEVER HOLD THE TWIST DRILL AT AN ANGLE.

  Keep the drill in an upright position!

  Keep your twist drill well-oiled as this will prevent overheating of the fast-rotating drill.

 If there is a collection of oil on the metal, leave it there. This collection of oil will keep your drill well-lubricated.

  Don't be vague about where each stone will be set. I rely upon an 'inked line' to locate the centre where the stones will be drilled.

 

  OOPS, there is no oil acting as a lubricant shown in this photo.

 If the twist drill overheats many problems will then start. The drill will bind and break with shards of steel remaining in the precious metal and this will be a major problem in trying to remove the steel.