Hi Jim & everyone on Orchid.
I’ve been thinking of something in Diamond Setting that is extremely difficult to create. In fact, I equate these two Bright-Cutting styles almost like “Advanced University, Post-Graduate Course in Bright-Cutting”
“Fish-Tail Setting” is on my own “Gerry’s Difficulty Scale of 36”. Ten (10) is difficult, but this is way over the top at 36!
All I use are three (3) gravers Onglette #1, Onglette #2 & a Flat Graver #40 to create this Art-Form. If a student wishes to learn how to construct these two intensive labour styles right from the beginning. All I ask is that each setting pattern will take approximately 1-2 days EACH! The only prerequisite is that person should have some prior knowledge on how to use a graver!!
The next pattern is simply named “Cut-Down” it is aptly called that, as the graver cuts down to and beyond the edge of the ring. Do you see any normal looking ‘beads’? There are beads but using another technique to make a wire-bead & secure the four corners to literally hold the stone…from that point the graver cuts further out & beyond the edge of the shank. This Difficulty Scale is off the chart.as I would give it a basic 50…a.k.a. OUCH or OY!
…Being a Diamond Setter is great fun, don’t get me wrong, I simply enjoy writing & working at my private bench & passing on to you all about this Art-Form.