DETAILED STEPS in the "Cluster Ring Project". Number #1, of 2 essays. => 12 photos

  I was taking photos of setting stones in a cluster ring, and I ended up with 35 photos. There are 10 photos in the previous essay on "BASIC STEPS IN SETTING A CLUSTER RING".

 As there are just too many photos & text to view. I thought that it would be prudent to split this important topic into two essays.

Who else would spend so much time and effort in explaining this (almost) simple project?

 The very important step is to secure the ring in your ring clamp. 

 With your pointed steel tool, open the claws wider than the stones. This will provide you with greater access for your burs.

 Please be careful not to break any of the claws; this might happen.

 When you undercut the centre claws, spread the claws further apart. Always allow for the bur to make contact with the metal.

With these curved plier jaws, start to tighten the stone. GENTLY!

I like these particular jaws as they give better handling instead of continually lifting your hand.

 Use the 'metal rod' again to widen the middle row of claws.

 It is advisable to use a large BUD bur to excavate the metal to allow the Pavilion of the stone to rest securely against the hole.

Use this same BUD bur to open the upper level of claws wider.

 Ensure that all of the holes have been cleaned & drilled. (This is very important!)

 When you place the stone in the setting, now comes the delicate part of setting & tightening the stone.

                   (Observe this technique in the lower photos.)

With your FLAT graver, dig into the wire claw and twist the blade, as this will create metal that slides over the side of the stone.

  In using your "156C, Under-Cutting" bur, gently allow for this bur to drill into each claw JUST WHERE THE STONE WILL TOUCH THE CLAW.

 If you wish to cut into the other claws, prepare for the same size of the stones in this cluster.

  We still have much work on the 'FINAL & FINISHING' essay.