Hand-drawn renderings for 'cluster setting' => 6 drawings & photos

THIS IS MY HISTORY LESSON.

  In my earlier days of this blog, I drew diagrams of this 'cluster setting' display; these were (truly) very rudimentary.

 But suffice to say, I've now advanced in my method of explaining setting techniques. Photos are the best teaching methods.

If these basic diagrams are still useful to you, I'm happy.

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 When the stones are sitting in and against the individual claws, a 'wire hook' is needed to tighten the stone. 

 Making these 'hooks' does take some levels of practice and finesse, not to mention a 'steady hand'. An intermediate-level knowledge of stone setting is required.

 When the stones are being prepared for setting, a '156C' 90-degree angle bur must create a seat in EACH CLAW for every stone. 

 Each seat must allow the stone to sit flat & not crooked. Avoid not drilling too deeply into the claws.

 All of the selected stones must be of the same size and colour. 

 This photo displays the finished group of 'cluster set' of stones.

 I had no intention to drill too deeply into each of the claws. If I did, it would weaken the structure and integrity of the claws.

 The only tool that I use in this delicate program, is a Flat graver of #40 width. There are many available shapes and thicknesses of blades, but this #40 tool is the 'best' for this stone setting program.